Mumbai Indians continue coaching revamp, release Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey
Mumbai Indians have continued their coaching overhaul ahead of IPL 2027, parting ways with bowling coaches Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey, as well as fielding coach Carl Hopkinson.
The departures mark another major change in the five-time IPL champions' coaching setup, coming days after Kieron Pollard replaced Mahela Jayawardene as head coach. Mumbai are now reshaping their backroom staff ahead of the next season.advertisement❮❯ Read Full StoryMALINGA, MHAMBREY DEPARTMalinga has enjoyed a long association with Mumbai Indians, first as a player before returning to the franchise in a coaching role. The former Sri Lanka fast bowler was instrumental in four IPL title wins and the team's 2011 Champions League T20 triumph, establishing himself as one of the most influential figures in MI's history.
After retiring from professional cricket, Malinga returned to the franchise as a mentor and coach, continuing to work with its bowling group. His departure brings an end to another chapter in his association with the team.
Mhambrey also has a longstanding relationship with Mumbai Indians. He was part of the franchise between 2010 and 2017 before returning in 2024, following the conclusion of his stint as India's bowling coach in October that year.
Across his two spells, Mhambrey contributed to the development of MI's bowling resources, bringing considerable coaching experience to the setup.
Hopkinson, meanwhile, joined Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2025, replacing James Pamment as the franchise's fielding coach. The Englishman brought international experience from his work with the England men's team, as well as his coaching experience with Ireland.
His departure means Mumbai Indians will also need to make changes to the fielding department as they restructure their support staff for the upcoming season.POLLARD TAKES CHARGE
The latest departures follow Mumbai Indians' decision to appoint Pollard as head coach, replacing Jayawardene. The former West Indies all-rounder had been serving as the franchise's batting coach after retiring as an IPL player and will now take charge of the team.
Jayawardene had two stints as Mumbai Indians head coach, from 2017 to 2022 and again from 2024 to 2026. During his tenure, the franchise won three IPL titles, in 2017, 2019 and 2020.
Pollard's promotion, followed by the exits of Malinga, Mhambrey and Hopkinson, signals a significant reshaping of Mumbai's coaching structure ahead of IPL 2027.
The franchise has not announced replacements for the three departing coaches. Mumbai Indians will now look to finalise their support staff as they prepare for the next edition of the tournament.- Ends
