Mumbai Indians have continued reshaping their coaching setup ahead of IPL 2027, parting ways with bowling coaches Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey, along with fielding coach Carl Hopkinson.
The latest departures follow the franchise’s decision to move on from head coach Mahela Jayawardene. Former West Indies captain Kieron Pollard has since been appointed as the new head coach as Mumbai prepare for a fresh chapter. Former India fielding coach T Dilip is also expected to join the franchise in a similar role.
Mumbai Indians Bid Farewell to Lasith Malinga
Lasith Malinga’s departure marks the end of an important association with the five-time IPL champions. The former Sri Lankan fast bowler has been one of the most influential figures in Mumbai Indians’ history, both as a player and as a member of the coaching staff.
During his playing career, Malinga played a major role in four IPL title-winning campaigns and helped Mumbai lift the Champions League T20 trophy in 2011. His ability to deliver under pressure made him one of the franchise’s most valuable players.
After retiring from professional cricket, Malinga returned to Mumbai Indians as a bowling mentor and coach, continuing to share his experience with the team’s younger fast bowlers.
In its farewell statement, Mumbai Indians acknowledged his outstanding contribution, highlighting his competitive nature, dedication and lasting influence on the franchise.
The management also recognised the important role he played in developing the team’s bowling culture over the years, describing his association with Mumbai as a special part of its history.
Paras Mhambrey Also Exits Mumbai Indians
Paras Mhambrey is another experienced member of the coaching staff who will not continue with Mumbai Indians.
He returned to the franchise in 2024 after being part of India’s coaching setup during their T20 World Cup-winning campaign. He worked with Mumbai for two IPL seasons and also took up responsibilities as bowling coach of MI Emirates.
Mhambrey has a lengthy history with the franchise. He was involved with Mumbai Indians during the inaugural IPL season in 2008 before returning for an extended spell between 2010 and 2017.
During that period, Mumbai secured their first IPL championship and won the Champions League T20 twice, in 2011 and 2013.
The franchise praised Mhambrey’s experience, professionalism and understanding of its team culture. It also acknowledged his contribution to developing bowling talent and building strong relationships with players and support staff across different periods.
His exit represents another significant change as Mumbai Indians look to establish a new coaching structure for the upcoming IPL season.
Carl Hopkinson Parts Ways with Mumbai Indians
Fielding coach Carl Hopkinson has also been released as part of the franchise’s coaching changes.
Hopkinson joined Mumbai Indians before the 2025 IPL season, replacing James Pamment in the fielding department.
Before moving to franchise cricket, he served as the England men’s team’s Lead Fielding Coach between 2018 and 2024. During his time with the England setup, he contributed to two major international successes, including the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup.
His experience with the England national team brought valuable international knowledge to Mumbai Indians’ coaching group.
Meanwhile, former India fielding coach T Dilip is expected to take over fielding responsibilities, although the franchise’s new support structure is still taking shape.
Mumbai Indians Prepare for a Major IPL 2027 Overhaul
The departure of Malinga, Mhambrey and Hopkinson signals a substantial transformation within Mumbai Indians’ coaching department.
With Mahela Jayawardene also leaving and Kieron Pollard stepping into the head coach position, the franchise is preparing for a different approach ahead of IPL 2027.
Mumbai Indians have enjoyed considerable success in the competition, but the latest changes indicate that the management is looking to refresh its coaching personnel and build a setup capable of delivering future titles.
The appointments and departures will be closely followed as fans wait to see how Pollard shapes the team’s preparations and which experienced names join the new coaching group.
For the latest cricket news, IPL updates, team announcements and live match scores, visit Live Cricket Score.
