Mumbai Indians part ways with Lasith Malinga and other coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027

The Mumbai Indians (MI) continue their coaching revamp as Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey, and Carl Hopkinson won’t be part of the franchise's men’s coaching staff any longer, as they announced on Thursday (October 29). Both Malinga and Mhambrey were the franchise’s bowling coaches while Hopkinson was appointed as the fielding coach. 

It wasn’t a great few previous seasons for the five-time champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), who ended the 2026 campaign of the competition at the ninth position of the table among the ten sides. They earned only four victories in 14 clashes at a net run rate of -0.584 under Hardik Pandya.

MI part ways with Lasith Malinga and coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027: What we know

This revamp is a part of the larger facet where the franchise replaced their head coach Mahela Jayawardene with Kieron Pollard earlier in October. Malinga joined the franchise in October 2023 ahead of the 2024 season, while Mhambrey and Hopkinson signed before the 2024 edition.

This was the second stint with MI for Mhambrey, who was with the team between 2010 and 2017 too. MI were the first team to win five IPL titles- in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020. But they haven’t qualified for the final in the last six seasons.

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“Mumbai Indians extend their heartfelt gratitude to Lasith, Paras and Carl for their contributions to the team and the wider MI family. Their commitment, the relationships they have built and the memories they have helped create will always be part of our journey. We wish each of them the very best in their future endeavours.” The franchise expressed this in a statement.

Kieron Pollard becomes new MI head coach for the 2027 season

A few weeks ago, the Mumbai-based franchise elevated the position of Kieron Pollard to head coach, extending one of the most enduring player-to-coach associations in the game. He brings an exceptional understanding of the franchise and its culture.

“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. I look forward to working closely with the players and support staff, building on the team’s legacy.” Pollard said in a statement.

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His appointment reflects the franchise’s commitment to building on the side’s legacy while continuing to develop the talent, as well as strengthening the culture and pursuing excellence on and off the field.