Mumbai: Mumbai Indians have announced that Mahela Jayawardene will step down as the franchise’s head coach ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, bringing an end to a decade-long association with the five-time champions.
The franchise confirmed the development on Saturday, October 17, 2026, thanking the former Sri Lankan captain for his contribution to the team and its wider cricketing setup. Jayawardene’s departure marks a significant change in the coaching structure as Mumbai Indians prepare for the next IPL season.
Jayawardene’s decade-long association with Mumbai Indians
Jayawardene first took charge as Mumbai Indians’ head coach in 2017. During his initial stint, which continued until 2022, the franchise won three IPL titles in 2017, 2019 and 2020.
His leadership helped establish a team environment centred on discipline, collaboration and collective performance. Under his guidance, Mumbai Indians secured back-to-back championships in 2019 and 2020, adding to their title-winning campaign in 2017.
In 2022, Jayawardene moved into a broader role as Global Head of Performance as the Mumbai Indians ownership expanded its presence across international T20 leagues. He returned as the franchise’s head coach in October 2024, ahead of the 2025 IPL season.
His second stint ran from 2024 to 2026, completing another chapter in his long association with the team.
Mumbai Indians thank Jayawardene for his contribution
Following the announcement, Mumbai Indians acknowledged Jayawardene’s contribution to the franchise’s development and culture.
Nita M. Ambani thanked the coach for his leadership, integrity and commitment, highlighting the role he played in shaping the team over the years.
Jayawardene also expressed gratitude to the franchise, acknowledging the experiences, challenges and achievements he shared with the players, coaching staff and supporters. He thanked Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their trust and support during his time with the team.
The farewell marks the conclusion of a relationship that extended beyond his responsibilities as head coach, encompassing his involvement in the franchise’s wider performance structure.
Change follows a difficult IPL 2026 campaign
Mumbai Indians endured a challenging 2026 IPL season, managing only four victories and finishing ninth in the standings. The result followed a stronger 2025 campaign, when the team reached Qualifier 2.
The franchise will now look to reshape its coaching leadership as it prepares for IPL 2027. However, Mumbai Indians had not announced a successor for Jayawardene at the time of the departure announcement.
The next appointment will be closely watched by supporters as the franchise works towards returning to contention for the IPL title.
What lies ahead for Mumbai Indians?
Jayawardene’s exit brings an end to one of the most successful coaching associations in Mumbai Indians’ history. His record includes three IPL championships as head coach, alongside his broader work in developing the franchise’s performance structure.
As preparations for IPL 2027 continue, attention will turn to the franchise’s choice of a new head coach and the direction it takes under its next leadership team.
For Jayawardene, the departure closes a significant chapter in his coaching career with Mumbai Indians. For the franchise, it signals the beginning of a new phase as it seeks to build on its past success and strengthen its prospects for the upcoming season.