Mumbai Indians have announced a major change to their coaching staff ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, confirming the departures of Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey and Carl Hopkinson. The decision marks another significant step in the five-time champions’ efforts to rebuild after a disappointing campaign in 2026.
The franchise confirmed on October 29 that the three coaches would be moving on from their respective roles in the men’s team setup. Mumbai Indians thanked them for their commitment and contributions but did not disclose specific reasons for their departures or announce replacements.
The latest changes follow the appointment of former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard as head coach, replacing Mahela Jayawardene. The leadership change came after Mumbai Indians finished ninth in the 2026 IPL standings and missed the playoffs for the fourth time in six seasons.
The coaching overhaul suggests that Mumbai Indians are preparing for a fresh approach as they look to return to the title race in IPL 2027. The franchise will need to reshape its support staff and plan its squad strategy ahead of the upcoming player auction.
Malinga’s departure marks the end of another important chapter in his long association with Mumbai Indians. The former Sri Lankan fast bowler was one of the franchise’s most influential players, leading its bowling attack during several successful IPL campaigns.
Malinga played for Mumbai Indians between 2009 and 2019, taking 170 wickets in 122 appearances. He played a defining role in four IPL title victories and was also part of the team that won the Champions League T20 in 2011.
Known for his distinctive bowling action, accurate yorkers and ability to deliver under pressure, Malinga became a key figure in Mumbai’s success. His performances in the closing overs of matches made him one of the most recognisable fast bowlers in T20 cricket.
After retiring as a player, Malinga returned to Mumbai Indians in coaching and mentoring roles. He served as the franchise’s bowling coach from 2024 to 2026, working with the team’s fast bowlers and sharing his experience of handling high-pressure situations.
Mumbai Indians praised Malinga’s passion, competitive spirit and commitment, saying his legacy would remain an important part of the franchise’s history. His exit is likely to attract attention among fans, given his contribution to the team’s most successful years.
Paras Mhambrey is also leaving after two separate stints with the franchise. He was associated with Mumbai Indians from 2010 to 2017 before returning in 2024. Over the years, he contributed to the development of the team’s bowling resources and built strong relationships within the setup.
Mhambrey has extensive coaching experience in Indian cricket. He served as India’s bowling coach from 2021 to 2024, a period that included the team’s run to the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup and its victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
His experience in working with both established international players and emerging talent made him an important part of Mumbai Indians’ coaching structure. The franchise acknowledged his role in nurturing bowling talent and thanked him for his service.
Carl Hopkinson, meanwhile, joined Mumbai Indians ahead of the 2025 season. The English coach brought international experience from his work with England’s men’s team, where he was involved in fielding preparation and performance.
At Mumbai Indians, Hopkinson focused on improving fielding standards, an area that can prove decisive in the fast-paced T20 format. The franchise appreciated his professionalism and efforts during his time with the team.
The departures of all three coaches come as Mumbai Indians prepare to begin a new phase under Pollard. A former captain and a central figure in the franchise’s title-winning campaigns, Pollard is now tasked with guiding the team back to consistent performances.
Mumbai Indians have won five IPL titles, but their recent seasons have been uneven. Their ninth-place finish in 2026 increased the pressure to reassess the team’s structure and performance. The changes in the coaching group could give Pollard greater scope to shape the support staff according to his plans.
The franchise has not yet confirmed who will take over the bowling and fielding responsibilities vacated by Malinga, Mhambrey and Hopkinson. Those appointments will be important as the team prepares for the IPL 2027 auction and begins planning for the next season.
For Mumbai Indians, the challenge will be to combine a refreshed coaching structure with a competitive playing squad. The departure of three experienced coaches signals a significant transition, but the impact of the changes will become clearer only when the team begins its preparations for IPL 2027.
