Mumbai Indians’ search for a way out of their longest title drought in the Indian Premier League has led the franchise to look within. Kieron Pollard, who has been an integral part of its five-title journey, has been elevated to head coach ahead of the next edition.

Pollard replaces Mahela Jayawardene, whose two-season second stint ended with a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign for the team.

MI has gone six seasons without winning the IPL, its longest such streak, with its last of the five titles title coming in 2020. The franchise management, The Hindu understands, had toyed with the idea of overhauling the support staff but eventually decided to stick with continuity in terms of ideas, handing Pollard the reins after two seasons as batting coach.

The move extends one of the most enduring associations in the IPL. Pollard was acquired by MI at the auction ahead of the 2010 season after his exploits in the inaugural Champions League Twenty20 made him one of the most sought-after players in the format. He has remained loyal to the Mumbai franchise across the IPL ecosystem, first as a player and then as part of its coaching set-up.

Pollard’s familiarity with the franchise’s culture and his rapport with key figures in the dressing room are likely to be central to the decision. He shares a close relationship with Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya, two active cricketers who have led MI in different phases with contrasting results.

With Rohit potentially set to have a greater say in the team’s functioning, it will be interesting to see how Pollard’s elevation influences the franchise’s plans for the next season, particularly amid speculation over the possible release of some of its high-profile players.

“Polly knows what it means to wear the MI jersey and what it takes to play for the Paltan,” MI co-owner Nita M. Ambani said. “I am confident that he will bring the same commitment, belief and determination to this role.”

Pollard, meanwhile, described the appointment as an honour, underlining his bond with the franchise and its supporters.

“Having experienced this journey as a player and then as a coach, I understand what Mumbai Indians stands for and the responsibility that comes with representing the Blue and Gold,” he said.

Mahela Jayawardene’s second stint as Mumbai Indians head coach has ended after three seasons, with the five-time Indian Premier League champion opting for a fresh outlook following an underwhelming 2026 campaign.

The franchise announced on Saturday (October 17, 2026) that Jayawardene would be stepping down, bringing the curtain down on a decade-long association that yielded three IPL titles under his leadership. It is understood that his departure had been anticipated ever since Mumbai Indians struggled to be competitive in the 2026 season, with the franchise keen to embark on a new chapter.

Jayawardene, who first took charge as head coach in 2017, led MI to IPL titles in 2017, 2019 and 2020. After stepping away from the role in 2022 to become the franchise’s Global Head of Performance, he returned as head coach in 2024.

“Mahela has made a significant contribution to Mumbai Indians over the years. His calm leadership, integrity and deep love for the game have meant so much to us,” Nita Ambani, owner of the franchise, said in a statement.

“Mahela will always be a part of our #OneFamily, and we wish him every happiness and success in the journey ahead.”

Jayawardene, meanwhile, thanked the Ambanis for their support and said he would cherish his association with the franchise.

“I leave with immense pride in what we have achieved together and will always carry a special place in my heart for MI,” he said.

While Jayawardene’s three IPL titles remain a significant part of his legacy, Mumbai’s recent returns have been inconsistent. The franchise endured disappointing campaigns in two of the last three seasons, prompting questions over its approach and the need for a reset.

It is understood that Mumbai Indians have already begun exploring replacements and are in touch with at least three prospective candidates. The names include an IPL stalwart and two former international captains.

Jayawardene’s contribution to the wider Mumbai Indians ecosystem extended beyond the IPL. As Global Head of Performance from 2022, he oversaw the franchise’s expansion into overseas leagues and helped establish a common cricketing philosophy across its teams. During that period, Mumbai Indians Women, MI New York and MI Emirates each won a title.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) auction will be held in Goa in mid-December, its chairman Arun Dhumal told PTI on Wednesday (September 23, 2026).

The IPL auction is returning to India after three previous editions were conducted overseas.

“We have finalised Goa. The likely dates are December 15 to 16,” said Dhumal.

The past three editions of the auction were held in Dubai, Jeddah (mega auction) and Abu Dhabi.

Dhumal had earlier said that it was a conscious effort to bring the auction back to India.

It will be a one-day affair as it is a mini auction.