Mahela Jayawardene Returns as Mumbai Indians Head Coach

In a significant development ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, the Mumbai Indians have reappointed Mahela Jayawardene as their head coach. Jayawardene, a former Sri Lankan captain and a successful coach in T20 cricket, will be taking over from Mark Boucher, under whom the franchise finished last in the recently concluded IPL season.

Jayawardene’s return to Mumbai Indians marks a reunion with the team he led to three IPL titles during his previous stint as head coach from 2017 to 2022. His appointment is expected to boost the morale of the Mumbai Indians squad and bring back the winning spirit that the franchise is known for.

“I am thrilled to be back at the helm of Mumbai Indians,” Jayawardene said in a statement. “My journey with the franchise has been one of constant evolution, and I am excited to contribute to the team’s continued success.”

Jayawardene’s coaching expertise extends beyond the IPL. He has also led teams in the Hundred (Southern Brave) and the Bangladesh Premier League (Khulna Titans). Additionally, he has worked with the Sri Lanka national team in various capacities, including a recent stint as a consultant coach.

The decision to bring Jayawardene back as head coach was made by Akash Ambani, the owner of the Mumbai Indians. Ambani expressed his confidence in Jayawardene’s leadership and his ability to guide the team back to winning ways.

Jayawardene’s first task as head coach will be to finalise Mumbai Indians’ retentions ahead of the IPL 2025 player auction. With a new purse of INR 120 crore, the franchise will have ample opportunity to rebuild their squad and aim for a strong performance in the upcoming season.

Mumbai Indians, a five-time IPL champions, have been one of the most successful franchises in the league’s history. With the return of Mahela Jayawardene as head coach, the team will be looking to add to their trophy cabinet and reassert their dominance in Indian cricket.