The Mumbai Indians have announced the appointment of former Sri Lanka cricketer Mahela Jayawardene as their new head coach for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. Jayawardene will take over the reins from Mark Boucher, who served as the team's coach for the past two seasons. Notably, Jayawardene previously led the Mumbai Indians from 2017 to 2022.
Mahela Jayawardene appointed MI head coach
During his previous stint, Jayawardene guided the Mumbai Indians to their third IPL title in 2017. Under his leadership, the franchise further cemented their status as the most successful team in IPL history by winning two more titles in 2019 and 2020. This brought their total number of championships to five, a record that has only been matched by the Chennai Super Kings.
Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani said that the franchise is thrilled to welcome the Sri Lanka legend as their head coach.
“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. 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,” MI owner said in a statement.
Meanwhile, right after taking charge as MI head coach Jayawardene said:
“My journey within the MI family has always been one of evolution. In 2017, the focus was on bringing together a talented group of individuals to play the best cricket ever and we did very well. Now to return, at the same moment in history, 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 history of Mumbai Indians, is an exciting challenge I am looking forward to.”
Paras Mhambrey to join Mumbai Indians?
Meanwhile, former India's bowling coach Paras Mhambrey has also reportedly decided to join MI franchise for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. This move is unexpected as many anticipated Mhambrey to reunite with Dravid at the Rajasthan Royals, where Dravid has recently taken over as the head coach.
According to Cricbuzz reports, Mhambrey will now join the five-time IPL champions, Mumbai Indians. This will be his second stint with the franchise, having previously worked with them before taking on roles with the BCCI. The 52-year-old will collaborate with Lasith Malinga, another bowling coach for MI. However, official statements have not been released, it is understood that Paras Mhambrey will be a part of the MI coaching staff for the upcoming IPL season.
