What is the story about?
Mumbai Indians has appointed former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard as the head coach ahead of IPL 2027. The appointment was confirmed by the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions days after Mahela Jayawardene stepped down from the role.
Before taking up the role as the head coach, the big-hitting batter represented the Mumbai Indians for 13 years. He scored 3,412 runs in 189 matches, took 69 wickets and won the league five times.
Pollard brings an exceptional understanding of Mumbai Indians, its culture and the demands of competing at the highest level. Ever since retiring from the IPL in November 2022, Pollard has been involved with Mumbai Indians as the batting coach.
And now, he will take up the role of the head coach for one of the most successful teams in franchise cricket. He is expected to change the franchise’s fortunes, as they have failed to win the IPL in the last six years. The Mumbai Indians finished ninth in the points table in the IPL 2026 season, winning just four out of 14 matches.
Pollard will bring valuable insight into the game’s changing dynamics, tactical demands and increasingly competitive landscape.
'Polly knows what it means to wear the MI jersey,' Nita Ambani
Showing full confidence in Pollard, Mumbai Indians co-owner Nita M. Ambani said, “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. 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,” she added.
What did Kieron Pollard say?
Pollard said he is looking forward to taking up the new responsibility and meeting fans’ expectations.
“It is an honour to take on the role of Head Coach of the 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.
“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,” Pollard said in an official statement.
He also thanked the Mumbai Indians management for trusting him. “I am grateful to Mrs. Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the entire MI family for their trust in me. I look forward to working closely with the players and support staff, building on the team’s legacy, helping our talent grow and giving the Paltan many more reasons to celebrate,” he added.
Pollard’s appointment reflects Mumbai Indians’ commitment to building on the team’s legacy while continuing to strengthen its culture, develop talent, and pursue excellence on and off the field.
Before taking up the role as the head coach, the big-hitting batter represented the Mumbai Indians for 13 years. He scored 3,412 runs in 189 matches, took 69 wickets and won the league five times.
Pollard brings an exceptional understanding of Mumbai Indians, its culture and the demands of competing at the highest level. Ever since retiring from the IPL in November 2022, Pollard has been involved with Mumbai Indians as the batting coach.
And now, he will take up the role of the head coach for one of the most successful teams in franchise cricket. He is expected to change the franchise’s fortunes, as they have failed to win the IPL in the last six years. The Mumbai Indians finished ninth in the points table in the IPL 2026 season, winning just four out of 14 matches.
Pollard will bring valuable insight into the game’s changing dynamics, tactical demands and increasingly competitive landscape.
'Polly knows what it means to wear the MI jersey,' Nita Ambani
Showing full confidence in Pollard, Mumbai Indians co-owner Nita M. Ambani said, “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. 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,” she added.
What did Kieron Pollard say?
Pollard said he is looking forward to taking up the new responsibility and meeting fans’ expectations.
“It is an honour to take on the role of Head Coach of the 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.
“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,” Pollard said in an official statement.
He also thanked the Mumbai Indians management for trusting him. “I am grateful to Mrs. Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the entire MI family for their trust in me. I look forward to working closely with the players and support staff, building on the team’s legacy, helping our talent grow and giving the Paltan many more reasons to celebrate,” he added.
Pollard’s appointment reflects Mumbai Indians’ commitment to building on the team’s legacy while continuing to strengthen its culture, develop talent, and pursue excellence on and off the field.
