Cricket

Mumbai Indians Unveil New Coaching Staff Featuring Robin Uthappa and Mitchell McClenaghan

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 30, 2026, 10:51 IST

Mumbai Indians have confirmed a major overhaul of their coaching staff for the 2027 IPL season, appointing former players Robin Uthappa and Mitchell McClenaghan to key roles alongside head coach Kieron Pollard.

Mumbai Indians Unveil New Coaching Staff Featuring Robin Uthappa and Mitchell McClenaghan

The Mumbai Indians have officially confirmed a significant restructuring of their coaching staff ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League season. The franchise, which has secured five IPL titles, is looking to revitalize its performance following a disappointing campaign last year, bringing in a mix of former players and experienced coaches to support newly appointed head coach Kieron Pollard.

Pollard, who has been a central figure at the franchise for 16 years, took over the head coaching duties last week, succeeding Mahela Jayawardene. To assist him, the team has appointed Robin Uthappa as batting coach, Mitchell McClenaghan as bowling coach, T. Dilip as fielding coach, and Dhawal Kulkarni as development bowling coach.

A New Era for Mumbai Indians Coaching

The appointments highlight a strong emphasis on franchise familiarity, with Uthappa, McClenaghan, and Kulkarni all having previously worn the Mumbai Indians jersey. Uthappa, a member of India’s inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup-winning squad, played for the franchise in 2008 and brings extensive experience from both domestic and franchise cricket circuits to his new role as batting coach.

Mitchell McClenaghan, the former New Zealand fast bowler, returns to the fold as bowling coach. During his playing tenure with the team from 2015 to 2020, he was a key part of four title-winning campaigns. Joining him in the bowling department is Dhawal Kulkarni, who will serve as the development bowling coach. Kulkarni, a two-time IPL champion with the side, will focus on nurturing young Indian bowling talent, a role that will extend throughout the year to ensure consistent support for the squad's development.

The fielding department will be led by T. Dilip, who arrives with a decorated resume from his time with the India men’s national team. Dilip was an integral part of the coaching setup during India’s successful runs at the 2024 and 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, as well as their victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. This complete overhaul of the support staff marks a strategic shift for the Mumbai Indians as they aim to return to the top of the IPL standings in the upcoming season.