Mumbai Indians overhaul support staff; part ways with Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey and Carl Hopkinson ahead of IPL 2027

In a major restructuring of their technical setup, five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Mumbai Indians have parted ways with bowling coaches Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey, alongside fielding coach Carl Hopkinson, ahead of the IPL 2027 campaign.

The high-profile departures signal a comprehensive reset within the franchise's coaching dugout as MI looks to rebuild momentum and realign its backroom dynamics ahead of the upcoming season.

A Franchise Icon Steps Down

The exit of Lasith Malinga marks the conclusion of another significant chapter in the franchise's storied history. The Sri Lankan pace legend, widely regarded as one of the greatest T20 bowlers ever, has been synonymous with Mumbai Indians' identity since the inception of the IPL.

After spearheading the attack on the field for over a decade and delivering iconic title-winning moments - most notably defending one run off the final ball in the 2019 final - Malinga transitioned into mentor and coaching roles across MI’s global franchises. 

While his tactical acumen helped hone the skills of the current pace battery, MI management has opted for a fresh strategic direction for the 2027 cycle.

Overhauling The Technical Engine Room

Alongside Malinga, former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey has also moved on. Mhambrey, who brought deep domestic and international coaching pedigree, played a pivotal role in fine-tuning bowler workloads and developing local talent.

Fielding coach Carl Hopkinson, formerly an integral part of England's white-ball revolution, also departs after working extensively to modernize the team's fielding drills and ground agility.

In an official statement, the Mumbai Indians organization acknowledged the trio's service.

"Mumbai Indians today announced that Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey and Carl Hopkinson will be moving on from their respective roles in the men’s team coaching setup, thanking each of them for their commitment, contribution and service to the franchise," the MI said in a statement.

Their commitment, the relationships they have built and the memories they have helped create will always be part of our journey.

We wish each of them the very best in their future endeavour, " it added. 

Aligning With The Pollard Era

The sweeping exits follow the recent appointment of franchise stalwart Kieron Pollard as head coach, succeeding Mahela Jayawardene.

With Pollard taking the reins of the dressing room, the management appears to be granting the new head coach full autonomy to assemble a revamped coaching staff tailored to his philosophy. 

The move underscores MI’s urgency to return to title-contending ways and recalibrate both their on-field strategies and player development pipelines ahead of the IPL 2027 player auctions and preseason camps.