The five-time IPL champion, Mumbai Indians (MI), has announced significant changes to its coaching staff ahead of the IPL 2027 season. The franchise has unveiled a new coaching collective that will be led by Curran Pollard, the world-renowned all-rounder from the West Indies.
In the new coaching setup, besides Pollard, the team has brought in four experienced specialists. Robin Uthappa from India has been appointed as the batting coach, and Mitchell McClenaghan from New Zealand has taken on the role of bowling coach. The team also includes Ti Delep, a former field coach of the Indian national team, and Dhawal Kulkarni, an experienced fast bowler from Mumbai.
Mumbai Indians shared information about these appointments through its social media channels. The franchise has included individuals in its updated coaching staff who have long been associated with the team and Indian cricket. Notably, Pollard, Uthappa, and McClenaghan have previously played for Mumbai Indians, and now they will work on developing the team in different roles.
Curran Pollard has long been one of the most discussed players of Mumbai Indians, representing the franchise for a long time and playing a key role in numerous team titles. Known for his explosive batting, useful bowling, and excellent fielding, Pollard is now transitioning to coaching.
Pollard has a deep understanding of the team culture and the needs of Mumbai Indians players. As head coach, he will face the challenge of drawing out the best performance from the athletes and leading the team in the race for the title.
According to the official announcement, Mumbai Indians has appointed Robin Uthappa as batting coach, Mitchell McClenaghan as bowling coach, Ti Delep as field coach, and Dhawal Kulkarni as bowling coach for the upcoming IPL 2027 season. They will join head coach Curran Pollard in the new coaching group, which combines a deep understanding of Mumbai Indians culture, extensive international experience, and a shared commitment to talent development and achieving success.
Mumbai Indians appointed former Indian national team batsman Robin Uthappa as the new batting coach. Uthappa was also involved in the franchise's early seasons and is now returning to Mumbai as a coach.
In Mumbai Indians' statement regarding his appointment, it was noted that Uthappa possesses a good understanding of the game, the ability to communicate with players, and experience in guiding young cricketers in the right direction, which will be beneficial to the team. Uthappa is among the Indian cricket players who have demonstrated power hitting across various formats and in T20 leagues.
His task will be to technically and strategically strengthen the team's batsmen. Uthappa's experience could prove valuable in tournaments like the IPL, where batsmen face diverse conditions and attacking lines.
Mitchell McClenaghan, a former fast bowler from New Zealand, has been appointed as the bowling coach. McClenaghan previously played for Mumbai Indians and was popular among the franchise's fans, having a connection to the team's past successes.
Mumbai Indians warmly welcomed his return. The franchise announced that they recruited McClenaghan after fans chanted 'Get Mitch!'. The team described him as a player who always lived the spirit of Mumbai Indians and team spirit with full passion.
As bowling coach, McClenaghan will be responsible for preparing bowlers for various conditions. His experience can be useful, especially in T20 cricket, regarding death bowling, taking wickets at the start, and making correct decisions under pressure.
Ti Delep, a former field coach of the Indian national team, will become the new field coach for Mumbai Indians. His work with the Indian team generated much discussion. Delep, who worked with three Indian teams that won ICC titles, is known for his energetic communication style with players and injecting energy into fielding efforts.
Mumbai Indians welcomed him, mentioning his enthusiasm and passion that attracted public attention during his tenure with the Indian team, including his unique award ceremony style. He will now be responsible for improving the defense, physical fitness, and agility of the team's players on the field.
Dhawal Kulkarni, a former fast bowler from Mumbai, has been appointed as the bowling development coach. Dhawal is a well-known figure in Mumbai cricket and has extensive experience in domestic cricket. He participated in many important matches while playing for Mumbai.
