Mumbai Indians part ways with Jayawardene

Mumbai Indians have parted ways with head coach Mahela Jayawardene, who mutually agreed to end their association following a disappointing 2026 season. The five-time Indian Premier League champions will now focus on finding a new leader ahead of the upcoming IPL cycle. The franchise encountered difficulties due to injuries, player availability issues and potential unrest within the team.

Multiple candidates for the position have already been shortlisted, with interviews expected in the coming week. Jayawardene's tenure, spanning from 2017 to 2024, saw the team secure three IPL titles in 2017, 2019 and 2020, with a second consecutive title in 2020. After stepping down, he served as global head of performance from 2022 to 2024 before returning as head coach in 2024 under a two-plus-one-year contract.

In a statement, Jayawardene expressed his gratitude to the franchise, the Ambani family, and the fans for their unwavering support. He acknowledged the unforgettable moments, challenges and achievements they shared together, stating that he will always cherish his time with the Mumbai Indians. The team's owner, Nita M. Ambani, also praised Jayawardene's leadership and long-standing association with the franchise, expressing her gratitude for his contributions and wishing him success in the future.