Pollard named Mumbai Indians head coach

Trinidad and Tobago’s Sport and Youth Affairs Minister Phillip Watts has praised Kieron Pollard’s appointment as head coach of the Mumbai Indians for the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, describing it as a proud achievement for the country. “Trinidad and Tobago does not just produce talent to compete internationally; we develop leaders who help shape the global stage,” Watts said. He called the appointment a significant milestone in Pollard’s career and said the 39-year-old’s journey should motivate young people to explore opportunities beyond playing professionally. Pollard’s appointment was announced days after Mumbai Indians parted ways with former head coach Mahela Jayawardene. “His journey with the Mumbai Indians, from an influential player to batting coach and now head coach, reflects the confidence the franchise has placed in his experience, cricketing knowledge and leadership,” Watts said in a statement. Pollard was a member of the Mumbai Indians team during all five of their IPL championship-winning campaigns in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. Between 2010 and 2022, he featured in 189 matches for the franchise, scoring 3,412 runs and claiming 69 wickets. Following his retirement from playing for the team, he took up the role of batting coach after the 2022 season. Watts said Pollard’s appointment showed that Trinidad and Tobago’s small size should never limit the ambitions or achievements of its people. “His journey speaks to the value of discipline, perseverance, and a sustained commitment to excellence, qualities we must continue to nurture in the next generation,” he said. Watts said Pollard’s appointment offers him the chance to leave a lasting impact by passing on his knowledge, nurturing emerging talent and helping players reach their full potential. He noted that coaching involves more than winning matches, as it also means establishing high standards, building players’ confidence and inspiring others. Pollard, meanwhile, expressed enthusiasm about stepping into the new position, having progressed from playing for Mumbai Indians to serving as the franchise’s batting coach. “It is an honor to take on the role of head coach of Mumbai Indians. MI has been a huge part of my life and career, and the bond I share with this team, the players and the Paltan means a great deal to me,” he said in a statement. Pollard said his time as both a player and batting coach had given him valuable insight into the franchise’s expectations. “I look forward to working closely with the players and support staff, building on the team’s legacy, helping our talent grow and giving the Paltan many more reasons to celebrate,” he said.