Mumbai Indians have announced their decision to part ways with head coach Mahela Jayawardene ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season. The franchise confirmed the development on Saturday, October 17, bringing an end to a coaching association that saw the five-time champions win three IPL titles under the former Sri Lanka captain.
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Jayawardene guided Mumbai Indians to IPL titles in 2017, 2019 and 2020 during his first stint as head coach. He initially took charge of the team in 2017 and continued in the role until the 2022 season before moving to the position of Global Head of Performance. He returned as head coach ahead of IPL 2025, replacing Mark Boucher after Mumbai Indians endured a disappointing 2024 campaign. Under Jayawardene, the team reached Qualifier 2 in 2025 but struggled in the following season, finishing ninth in the IPL 2026 standings with just four wins. Mumbai Indians, who have won five IPL titles, will aim to put their disappointing 2026 campaign behind them and return to contention for the championship in the upcoming season.
The players, coaching team, the incredible support of the #OneFamily and above all the fans have made this an experience I will always treasure,” Jayawardene said. “Mumbai Indians has been a very special part of my journey for over a decade now. He also thanked Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their trust and support, adding that he would always look back on his time with the franchise with pride. “I leave with immense pride in what we have achieved together and will always carry a special place in my heart for MI. I wish the team every success in the years ahead,” he added.
