Mahela Jayawardene Steps Down As Mumbai Indians Head Coach

Sri Lankan cricket great Mahela Jayawardene has stepped down as head coach of Mumbai Indians, bringing his decade-long association with the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions to a close. The franchise announced his departure on Saturday, October 17, ahead of the IPL 2027 season. 

Jayawardene’s exit follows a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign in which Mumbai Indians won just four of their 14 league matches and finished ninth among 10 teams. The franchise is now expected to appoint a new head coach as it looks to rebuild ahead of the next season.

Jayawardene Guided Mumbai Indians To Three IPL Titles

Jayawardene first took charge as Mumbai Indians head coach in 2017. During his initial stint, which lasted until 2022, he guided the team to three IPL titles—in 2017, 2019 and 2020—making him a key figure in the franchise’s most successful period.

In 2022, he moved into the role of Global Head of Performance, overseeing the franchise’s expanding cricket operations across different leagues. He returned as Mumbai Indians head coach ahead of the 2025 season, replacing Mark Boucher.

Under his leadership, Mumbai reached Qualifier 2 in IPL 2025 but struggled the following year, finishing near the bottom of the standings.

Mumbai Indians Thank Jayawardene For His Contribution

Mumbai Indians owner Nita M. Ambani thanked Jayawardene for his contribution, highlighting his leadership, integrity and commitment to the franchise.

“Mahela has made a significant contribution to Mumbai Indians over the years,” Ambani said, adding that the franchise would always cherish its journey with him and wished him success in the future.

Jayawardene also expressed gratitude to the franchise, its owners, players, coaching staff and supporters. He described Mumbai Indians as a special part of his journey and said he was proud of what they had achieved together.

He thanked Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their trust, support and friendship, while wishing the team success in the years ahead.

Mumbai Indians Begin Search For New Head Coach

Jayawardene’s departure leaves Mumbai Indians with a significant decision ahead of IPL 2027. The franchise will need to identify a successor capable of restoring consistency and challenging for another title.

The team’s recent results have also brought scrutiny of its overall leadership and playing strategy. Mumbai Indians, who have not won the IPL title since 2020, will be keen to make the right changes before the next campaign.

With Jayawardene’s departure confirmed, the appointment of a new head coach is expected to be one of the franchise’s key priorities as it prepares for the upcoming season.