Five-time Indian Premier League champions Mumbai Indians have announced the appointment of former India batsman Robin Uthappa as their new batting coach ahead of the upcoming IPL 2027 season. The major shake-up in the coaching setup follows a disappointing previous campaign where the franchise managed just four wins from 14 matches and finished ninth in the league standings.
Uthappa takes over the batting responsibilities from Kieron Pollard, who was recently elevated to the position of head coach following the departure of Sri Lanka great Mahela Jayawardene. Alongside Uthappa’s appointment, the franchise confirmed several other key additions to bolster their support staff for the future tournaments.
- Robin Uthappa appointed as the new batting coach for the IPL 2027 season.
- Kieron Pollard promoted to head coach, replacing Mahela Jayawardene.
- Mitchell McClenaghan named bowling coach and T. Dilip joins as fielding coach.
- Dhawal Kulkarni appointed as the development bowling coach for young talents.
Coaching Staff Revamp
The extensive overhaul of the coaching staff sees former New Zealand fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan return to the franchise as the bowling coach, replacing outgoing staff members Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey. McClenaghan previously enjoyed a successful playing career with the team, securing four IPL titles during his tenure between 2015 and 2020. Additionally, T. Dilip transitions into the fielding coach role after serving with the senior India national team during their successful ICC tournament runs.
Uthappa’s Wealth of Experience
Uthappa brings immense experience to the Mumbai dugout, having played in the inaugural IPL season back in 2008 and representing six different franchises throughout his illustrious career. Over 177 matches, he accumulated 4,411 runs at a strike rate of 130.50, highlighted by 24 half-centuries. He famously won the Orange Cap in 2014 while playing for Kolkata Knight Riders, helping them lift the trophy, before securing another IPL title with Chennai Super Kings in 2021 prior to his retirement from the league in 2022.
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