Mumbai Indians have appointed Kieron Pollard as their head coach for the IPL 2027 season, the five-time champions announced on Saturday, October 24, ESPNcricinfo reported. Pollard, until now the team's batting coach, succeeds Mahela Jayawardene, who stepped down from the role on October 17.

Source: ESPNcricinfo

"It is an honour to take on the role of Head Coach of Mumbai Indians. MI has been a huge part of my life and career, and the bond I share with this team, the players and the Paltan means a great deal to me," Pollard said in the franchise's statement, carried by LatestLY. "Having experienced this journey as a player and then as a coach, I understand what the Mumbai Indians stand for and the responsibility that comes with representing the Blue and Gold."

Source: Mumbai Indians via LatestLY

16 yearsPollard's association with Mumbai Indians, since joining as a 22-year-old in 2010
5IPL titles won as an MI player (2013-2020)
3,412 runsPollard's IPL tally in 189 matches — MI's third-highest scorer
9thMI's finish in IPL 2026, missing the playoffs for the second time in three seasons

MI co-owner Nita M Ambani said Pollard had become "an integral part of our family" over 16 years. "As a player, he gave us many unforgettable moments, and as a coach, he has continued to share his experience, passion and deep understanding of the game. We are delighted to see him take on this new responsibility as head coach. Polly knows what it means to wear the MI jersey and what it takes to play for the Paltan," she said, according to ESPNcricinfo.

Source: ESPNcricinfo

Pollard's first major task will be the franchise's retention list, due by the November 15 deadline, with the IPL 2027 auction expected about a month later in Goa, ESPNcricinfo reported. MI last won the IPL in 2020, when they became the first team to successfully defend the title. Pollard also coaches MI London in The Hundred and has played for other MI-family teams including MI New York, MI Cape Town and MI Emirates.

Source: ESPNcricinfo