The Mumbai Indians (MI) are officially on the hunt for a new head coach following the departure of Mahela Jayawardene, whose association with the franchise spanned ten seasons and included five title wins in 2017, 2019, and 2020. Despite intense speculation linking former India head coach Rahul Dravid to the vacancy, it has been confirmed that he is not in contention. Dravid, who guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title and the 2023 ODI World Cup final, has opted to focus on his family and the careers of his sons, Samit and Anvay. He has remained resolute in declining IPL offers since his departure from the Rajasthan Royals ahead of the 2026 season. But he has steadfastly resisted the temptation of the riches on offer in the IPL, dravid was flooded with offers after he quit Rajasthan Royals ahead of the 2026 season. He may be ready to return, but it will not be next season, at some stage. There is, therefore, no clear indication yet of who could replace Jayawardene, whose contract with the franchise was due to expire soon.
Similarly, Australian legend Adam Gilchrist and former England captain Eoin Morgan have both ruled themselves out of the running. Neither is currently available, and they have reportedly communicated their unavailability to various IPL managements. MI officials, who recently held discussions regarding the change during a period otherwise dominated by preparations for the upcoming Jio IPO, officially parted ways with Jayawardene, who served two stints as head coach from 2017 to 2022 and again from 2024 to 2026. Otherwise occupied with the Jio IPO scheduled for later this month, met on Friday evening and decided to part ways with the Sri Lankan, who served as the franchise’s head coach across two stints — first from 2017 to 2022 and then from 2024 to 2026, the MI officials.
Reflecting on his tenure, Nita Ambani praised Jayawardene, stating, “His calm leadership, integrity and deep love for the game have meant so much to us.” Jayawardene expressed his gratitude, adding, “I leave with immense pride in what we have achieved together and will always carry a special place in my heart for MI. I wish the team every success in the years ahead.”
The franchise has left the decision regarding the future of the current support staff—bowling coaches Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey, batting coach Kieron Pollard, and fielding coach Carl Hopkinson—to the incoming head coach. As their contracts are either expired or nearing their end, the management is expected to initiate the interview process shortly. Several candidates remain on the radar for multiple IPL franchises, including MI, with Mike Hussey, Adrian Birrell, and Aaron Finch mentioned as potential options. Sources say the interview process is likely to begin soon.
Hussey, who recently ended his association with the Chennai Super Kings, is reportedly open to new IPL opportunities despite turning down an offer to work under Stephen Fleming in the England setup. Meanwhile, South African coach Adrian Birrell, known for his success with Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20 and Sunrisers Leeds Women in The Hundred, is highly sought after, though he currently appears disinterested in moving to the IPL. Former Australian captain Aaron Finch is also being discussed, having held talks with several teams. A prominent former Indian player is also reportedly being monitored by several franchises. However, he is believed to be open to another IPL gig.
