Mumbai Indians reappoint Mahela Jayawardene as Head Coach | Cricket News
Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai Indians reappointed former Sri Lankan cricketer Mahela Jayawardene as the Head Coach on Sunday. The 47-year-old has previously was in the role from 2017-2022, a period in which MI has won three IPL trophies.
“In 2017, the focus was on bringing together a talented group of individuals to play the best cricket ever and we did very well,” said Jayawardene in a press release.
“Now to return, at the same moment in hory, where we look ahead at the future and the opportunity to further strengthen the love of MI, build on the vision of the owners, and continue to add to the hory of Mumbai Indians, is an exciting challenge I am looking forward to,” he added.
In 2022 Jayawardene was moved from Head Coach’s position to Global Head of Cricket for the MI franchise overseeing the expansion in franchise leagues across various countries.
“We are thrilled to have Mahela back as the Head Coach of Mumbai Indians. With our global teams having found their footing within their ecosystems, the opportunity to bring him back to MI arose. His leadership, knowledge, and passion for the game have always benefited MI,” said franchise owner Akash Ambani.
He would also appreciate the services of former South African player Mark Boucher who took up the role in the absence of Jayawardene for the last couple of seasons.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mark Boucher for his contribution over the last two seasons. His expertise and dedication were pivotal during his time, and has now become an integral member of the MI family,” Ambani added.
Mumbai has reached the Playoffs in 2023 season and have finished 10th in the 2024 season with Boucher at the helm. The side has also made Hardik Pandya as the captain, moving on from Rohit Sharma who has led MI from 2013 to 2023 and delivered five trophies.