Kieron Pollard Becomes Head Coach of Mumbai Indians
Kieron Pollard, a former player and batting coach for the Mumbai Indians, has been appointed as the team's new Head Coach. He takes over after Mahela Jayawardene stepped down earlier in October 2026. Pollard has a long history with the team, having played for 13 years and won five IPL titles.
By The Junior Post
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Kieron Pollard has been appointed as the new Head Coach for the Mumbai Indians, a well-known cricket team. This announcement was made on October 24, 2026, by the Mumbai Indians. Pollard's new role extends his long relationship with the team, which began when he joined as a player at 22 years old.
Pollard's promotion comes after Mahela Jayawardene stepped down from the Head Coach position earlier in October 2026. Before becoming Head Coach, Pollard served as the batting coach for the Mumbai Indians, a role he took on after retiring as a player from the Indian Premier League (IPL) in November 2022.
As a player, Kieron Pollard was a key part of the Mumbai Indians for 13 years. During this time, he helped the team win five IPL titles between 2013 and 2020. He played 189 matches, scoring 3,412 runs and taking 69 wickets. His experience as a successful player and coach is expected to help the team grow.
Nita M. Ambani, Co-owner of Mumbai Indians, expressed her confidence in Pollard, highlighting his deep understanding of the game and his commitment to the team. Pollard himself stated it was an honour to take on the role, acknowledging his strong bond with the team, players, and fans, known as the 'Paltan'.
Knowledge Vault
Cricket Coaching Roles
In cricket, a Head Coach is responsible for the overall strategy, training, and performance of the team. A Batting Coach focuses specifically on improving players' batting skills. These roles are important for guiding players and helping the team succeed.
Indian Premier League (IPL)
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a professional Twenty20 cricket league in India. It is one of the most popular cricket leagues globally, featuring teams from different Indian cities competing against each other. Players from around the world participate in the IPL.
Team Ownership in Sports
Team owners, like Nita M. Ambani for the Mumbai Indians, are individuals or groups who own a sports franchise. They are responsible for the team's management, finances, and overall direction, including hiring coaches and making important decisions about the team's future.
Check your understanding
- What was Kieron Pollard's role with the Mumbai Indians immediately before becoming Head Coach?
- Player
- Team Captain
- Batting Coach
- Assistant Coach
- How many IPL titles did Kieron Pollard help the Mumbai Indians win as a player?
- One
- Three
- Five
- Seven
- Who did Kieron Pollard replace as the Head Coach of Mumbai Indians?
- Nita M. Ambani
- Akash Ambani
- Mahela Jayawardene
- Another former player