Mahela Jayawardene has stepped down as head coach of Mumbai Indians (MI), the franchise announced on Saturday, bringing an end to his second stint in the role. The development comes at a crucial time for the five-time IPL champions, who are preparing for the upcoming season following a disappointing campaign in 2026.
Jayawardene returned as Mumbai Indians head coach ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, replacing Mark Boucher. He had previously held the position from 2017 to 2022, during which the franchise won three IPL titles.
In a statement released by the franchise, Jayawardene expressed gratitude to the Mumbai Indians management, players, coaching staff and supporters for their continued support throughout his association with the team.
"Mumbai Indians has been a very special part of my journey for over a decade now," Jayawardene said. He also thanked franchise owners Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their trust, support and friendship, adding that he would always cherish his time with the team.
Jayawardene’s Successful First Stint with Mumbai Indians
Jayawardene enjoyed considerable success during his first tenure as head coach, guiding Mumbai Indians to three IPL titles and establishing himself as one of the franchise's most successful coaches.
After stepping away from the head coach position in 2022, he served as the global head of performance for the Mumbai Indians group from 2022 to 2024. In that capacity, he oversaw the franchise's wider cricket operations, including MI Emirates in the ILT20, MI New York in Major League Cricket and MI Cape Town in the SA20.
His return to the head coach position ahead of the 2025 season, however, produced mixed results. Mumbai Indians finished fourth in the league stage in 2025 before losing in Qualifier 2. The team's fortunes declined further in 2026, when MI finished ninth after managing only four wins in 12 matches.
Mumbai Indians last won the IPL title in 2020, completing back-to-back championship victories under Jayawardene's leadership.
Nita Ambani Thanks Jayawardene for His Contribution
Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani paid tribute to the outgoing coach, highlighting his leadership, integrity and commitment to the franchise over the years.
"Mahela has made a significant contribution to Mumbai Indians over the years. His calm leadership, integrity and deep love for the game have meant so much to us," Ambani said.
She added that Jayawardene would always remain part of the Mumbai Indians family and wished him success in his future endeavours.
Mumbai Indians Face Key Decisions Ahead of IPL 2027
Jayawardene's departure leaves Mumbai Indians searching for a new head coach with the IPL retention deadline approaching on November 15. The next auction is expected to take place in Goa around a month later.
The franchise also faces questions surrounding captain Hardik Pandya following its disappointing 2026 campaign. Speculation about a possible trade involving Pandya emerged after Mumbai's poor finish, although no confirmed decision on his future was mentioned in the announcement.
Pandya's individual numbers also came under scrutiny during the season. He scored 206 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 138.25, with a highest score of 40, while taking four wickets in 10 matches.
With a new head coach to appoint and important decisions to make ahead of the next season, Mumbai Indians face a significant rebuilding challenge as they look to return to title contention in IPL 2027.