Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 24: Former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard will take over as head coach of Mumbai Indians ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, the five-time champions announced on Saturday.

Pollard, who has served as the franchise's batting coach for the past few seasons, will succeed Mahela Jayawardene following his exit from the role.

Announcing the appointment, Mumbai Indians said Pollard's elevation extended one of the most enduring player-to-coach associations in cricket. The franchise added that his leadership would focus on building on the team's legacy, nurturing talent and strengthening its culture while pursuing excellence on and off the field.

Pollard said Mumbai Indians had been a significant part of his life and career, adding that he shared a strong bond with the team, its players and the Paltan, the franchise's passionate fan base.

Having experienced the journey as both a player and a coach, Pollard said he understood the values of Mumbai Indians and the responsibility of representing the team's blue and gold colours.

The 39-year-old represented Mumbai Indians in the IPL from 2009-10 until his final appearance in the 2022 edition. He has also featured in franchise-based T20 leagues around the world and represented MI New York in Major League Cricket this year.

In 189 IPL matches for Mumbai Indians, Pollard scored 3,412 runs at an average of 28.67 and a strike rate of 147.32, including 16 half-centuries. He also claimed 69 wickets, with his best bowling figures being 4/44.

Mumbai Indians remain one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, having won five titles. However, their last championship came in 2020, and Pollard's major challenge will be to guide the team back to the title-winning path in 2027.