Mahela Jayawardene likely to continue as MI coach; status quo on trade chatter
Mahela Jayawardene is expected to remain the head coach of the Mumbai Indians for the 2027 IPL season despite a disappointing 2026 campaign. The franchise is currently navigating potential trade discussions regarding captain Hardik Pandya while planning for a leadership transition.
Why it matters
The Mumbai Indians are a major franchise in the IPL, and their management decisions significantly impact the league's competitive landscape and player market.
NEW DELHI: Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene is likely to continue as Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach for the 2027 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), with the franchise reluctant to make sweeping changes. It is learnt that Jayawardene joined the five-time champions on a "two + one" contract in 2024 and could well be given another year, considering it will be the last year of the ongoing cycle. A formal announcement is expected next month, provided there is no late change of heart.Under Jayawardene, Mumbai Indians reached the playoffs in 2025 but finished ninth the following year. 2026 was a disappointing season for the IPL giants, as they won only four games in a campaign marred by injuries, availability concerns and unrest in the dressing room.Since the disappointing last season, there has been a lot of chatter around their captain Hardik Pandya's potential trade.
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