Mahela Jayawardene’s stint with Mumbai Indians ends

Mahela Jayawardene has stepped down as head coach of the Mumbai Indians following an underwhelming 2026 IPL season. The franchise is moving toward a new leadership chapter after a decade-long association that included three IPL titles under his guidance.
Why it matters
As one of the most successful IPL franchises, Mumbai Indians' coaching changes significantly impact the competitive landscape of professional cricket.
Mahela Jayawardene’s stint with Mumbai Indians ends left File photo of Mahela Jayawardene https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/52i0h4/article71595689.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/WhatsApp%20Image%202026-10-17%20at%2012.06.43.jpeg Rajdeep Saha _12144 Jayawardene, who first took charge as head coach in 2017, led MI to IPL titles in 2017, 2019 and 2020 Mumbai Mahela Jayawardene’s second stint as Mumbai Indians head coach has ended after three seasons, with the five-time Indian Premier League champion opting for a fresh outlook following an underwhelming 2026 campaign. The franchise announced on Saturday (October 17, 2026) that Jayawardene would be stepping down, bringing the curtain down on a decade-long association that yielded three IPL titles under his leadership. It is understood that his departure had been anticipated ever since Mumbai Indians struggled to be competitive in the 2026 season, with the franchise keen to embark on a new chapter.
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