Mumbai Indians are on the lookout for a new head coach ahead of IPL 2027 after Mahela Jayawardene stepped down from the role. The franchise and Jayawardene parted ways by mutual agreement, with the aim of bringing a fresh perspective to the setup.
The decision was reached at a meeting of the franchise’s top brass during the week of October 17, 2026. MI have reportedly already identified multiple candidates, and interviews could take place in that same week, with a replacement likely to be finalised shortly after.
Here are 3 potential names who could join MI as head coach in IPL 2027:
3. Kieron Pollard
Kieron Pollard is one of the most prominent names being considered for the head coach role at Mumbai Indians. The West Indian all-rounder was a key part of the MI squad from 2010 to 2022, representing the franchise across more than a decade of IPL cricket.
He transitioned into coaching ahead of the 2023 season and is currently serving as the team’s Batting Coach, which makes it likely that he gets a promotion in his role. His long association with the franchise, combined with his existing presence in the support staff, makes him a natural candidate to step up. Pollard’s familiarity with the MI culture and playing group could ease any transition in leadership within the setup.
2. Hemang Badani
Hemang Badani is another candidate who could be considered for the head coach position at Mumbai Indians. Badani has built a reputation as a capable and experienced batting coach and mentor in Indian domestic and franchise cricket. His coaching background spans multiple formats and teams, giving him a broad base of experience to draw from.
A move to one of the IPL’s most high-profile franchises would represent a significant step in his coaching career. MI are looking for someone who can bring stability and direction to a side that finished ninth in IPL 2026, winning only four of their 14 matches, and Badani’s experience in developing batting units could be relevant to what the franchise needs going forward.
3. Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid is among the most respected names in Indian cricket and has been linked with the Mumbai Indians head coach vacancy. Dravid served as the head coach of the Indian national men’s team before stepping down after India’s T20 World Cup campaign. His coaching record at the highest level, combined with his standing in the game, makes him an attractive option for any franchise.
MI are seeking a figure who can bring credibility and structure to a side that endured a difficult 2026 season. Dravid’s experience managing high-profile players and building team environments at the international level would be directly relevant to the challenges that Mumbai are facing ahead of IPL 2027.
Mumbai Indians are expected to finalise their new head coach in the coming days. The franchise’s support staff already includes Sachin Tendulkar as mentor, Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey as bowling coaches, and Carl Hopkinson as fielding coach, with the head coach position listed as to be announced.