Mumbai Indians Name New Coaching Team for IPL 2027, Uthappa and McClenaghan Return

Five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Mumbai Indians have announced a revamped coaching staff for the 2027 season, bringing back former franchise players Robin Uthappa, Mitchell McClenaghan and Dhawal Kulkarni in key coaching roles.

Uthappa has been appointed batting coach, while former New Zealand fast bowler McClenaghan will take charge as bowling coach, replacing Lasith Malinga. Former India fielding coach T Dilip has been named the franchise’s new fielding coach, while former Mumbai pacer Kulkarni will serve as development bowling coach.

The appointments mark Uthappa’s first major coaching assignment in the IPL. He previously represented Mumbai Indians during the inaugural season in 2008.

McClenaghan, meanwhile, enjoyed a successful playing career with the franchise between 2015 and 2020, becoming part of four IPL title-winning campaigns. Kulkarni also represented Mumbai Indians across multiple stints and was part of the championship-winning teams in 2013 and 2020.

Major Changes to Mumbai Indians’ Coaching Setup

The latest appointments follow a series of significant changes in Mumbai Indians’ coaching structure.

On Wednesday, the franchise officially announced its separation from bowling coach Lasith Malinga, assistant coach Paras Mhambrey and fielding coach Carl Hopkinson through a social media post thanking the trio for their contributions.

The developments came days after Mumbai Indians parted ways with head coach Mahela Jayawardene and appointed former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard as his successor.

Pollard will now lead the revamped coaching group as the franchise prepares for the upcoming IPL campaign.

Malinga’s Departure Marks the End of an Era

Malinga’s departure represents a significant change for Mumbai Indians, given his long association with the franchise as both a player and coach.

The former Sri Lankan fast bowler was one of the most influential figures in Mumbai’s history, spearheading its bowling attack and playing a decisive role in four IPL title victories. He also contributed to the franchise’s 2011 Champions League T20 triumph.

Following his retirement from professional cricket, Malinga returned to Mumbai Indians in a mentoring and coaching capacity, continuing his association with the franchise.

Paras Mhambrey also shared a lengthy relationship with Mumbai Indians, serving the franchise from 2010 to 2017 before returning in 2024.

Pollard to Lead New Coaching Group

With Pollard taking charge as head coach, Mumbai Indians are looking to establish a renewed coaching structure focused on player development and team performance.

In a statement, the franchise said the new coaching group would work together to strengthen player development, create a high-performance environment and prepare the squad for the challenges of the upcoming season.

The appointments bring together former Mumbai Indians players and experienced coaching personnel as the franchise begins preparations for IPL 2027.