Legendary West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard has been appointed head coach of Mumbai Indians (MI), marking a new chapter in his long association with the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions. The Mumbai-based franchise announced Pollard’s promotion on social media on Saturday, October 24, confirming that he will take charge of the team from the 2027 IPL season. Pollard has been an integral part of Mumbai Indians for more than a decade, first making his mark as a powerful middle-order batter and an effective all-rounder before moving into coaching.
After serving as MI’s batting coach for the last four IPL editions, the former West Indies T20I captain will now make his debut as head coach. The appointment comes after former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene decided to step down from the position last week. Mumbai Indians have turned to a familiar face to lead the team, with Pollard’s experience, understanding of the franchise’s culture and long-standing relationships with its players expected to play an important role in the transition.
Kieron Pollard joined Mumbai Indians in 2010 as a 22-year-old and quickly became one of the most influential players in the franchise’s history. His explosive batting, athletic fielding and ability to deliver with the ball helped MI enjoy a successful period in the IPL. During his playing career with Mumbai Indians between 2010 and 2022, Pollard won five IPL titles. He was also part of the franchise’s Champions League T20-winning teams in 2011 and 2014, further strengthening his legacy within the organisation.
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Following his retirement from playing in the IPL, Pollard continued his association with the franchise as a batting coach. His promotion to head coach reflects the trust Mumbai Indians have placed in his knowledge of the game and his familiarity with the team’s expectations. Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani welcomed Pollard’s appointment, highlighting his contribution to the franchise as both a player and a member of the coaching staff.
In an official statement released by the franchise, Ambani said Pollard had become an integral part of the MI family over the past 16 years. She also expressed confidence in his ability to carry the team’s values into his new role.
Mumbai Indians elevate Kieron Pollard as Head Coach
A defining figure in MI’s success, the remarkable 16-year association of Kieron Pollard within the #OneFamily enters a new chapter.
Read more – https://t.co/ORZz4gruIr https://t.co/BMI38BYH1f
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) October 24, 2026
“Pollard joined Mumbai Indians as a young 22-year-old and, over the past 16 years, has become an integral part of our family. 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,” Nita Ambani said.
“Pollard joined Mumbai Indians as a young 22-year-old and, over the past sixteen years, has become an integral part of our family.
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. I am confident that he will bring the same commitment, belief and determination to this role. I wish him every success as he leads the team into its next chapter.”
– Mrs. Nita M. Ambani
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) October 24, 2026
She added that Kieron Pollard understands the responsibility of representing Mumbai Indians and expressed confidence that he would bring the same commitment and determination to the role. Pollard described his appointment as an honour and emphasised the importance of his relationship with Mumbai Indians, its players and supporters.
“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,” Kieron Pollard said.
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He also thanked Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the wider Mumbai Indians management for placing their faith in him. Kieron Pollard added that he looked forward to working closely with the players and support staff, developing emerging talent and building on the franchise’s successful legacy. With the 2027 IPL season marking Pollard’s first campaign as head coach, Mumbai Indians will hope his experience and deep connection with the franchise can help the team achieve further success.
