2007 T20 World Cup winner joins Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2027

Mumbai Indians have begun reshaping their coaching setup ahead of the IPL 2027 season, bringing in fresh faces while relying on individuals with previous associations with the franchise. The five-time IPL champions are preparing for a new chapter under their recently appointed head coach, with several changes made across the batting, bowling and fielding departments. The latest appointments also signal the franchise’s intention to combine international experience with familiarity with its own culture and playing environment.

2007 T20 World Cup winner appointed Mumbai Indians’ batting coach

Former India batter Robin Uthappa has been appointed Mumbai Indians’ batting coach, marking his first coaching assignment with an IPL franchise. The 2007 T20 World Cup winner will take up the responsibility ahead of the 2027 season, having previously represented the Mumbai-based franchise during the inaugural edition of the tournament in 2008.

Uthappa was a regular member of Mumbai Indians’ playing XI in their first IPL campaign. However, his association with the franchise did not last long, as he was subsequently traded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in exchange for former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan.

The former batter continued his IPL career with several franchises before bringing his league journey to an end after the 2022 season. His appointment now gives him an opportunity to contribute from the dugout rather than on the field.

Alongside Uthappa, T Dilip has been appointed Mumbai Indians’ fielding coach. Dilip previously held the same position with the Indian men’s cricket team for nearly five years, earning recognition for his contribution to the team’s fielding standards. Dilip’s appointment brings considerable international coaching experience to Mumbai Indians. During his tenure with the Indian men’s team, he was part of three ICC title-winning campaigns: the 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Also READ: Dinesh Karthik names ideal captain for Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2027

Mitchell McClenaghan and Dhawal Kulkarni join bowling department

Mumbai Indians have also brought back two familiar faces to strengthen their bowling support staff. Former New Zealand left-arm pacer Mitchell McClenaghan has been appointed bowling coach, while former India medium-pacer Dhawal Kulkarni will serve as the development bowling coach.

McClenaghan enjoyed considerable success during his playing days with Mumbai Indians. He was an important member of the franchise’s title-winning campaigns in 2015, 2017 and 2019, collecting 71 wickets in 56 appearances. The New Zealand pacer was also part of Mumbai’s squad during their successful title defence in 2020, although he did not feature in any matches that season. He subsequently gained coaching experience with MI Emirates, serving as their bowling coach during the 2024 ILT20 campaign, which ended with the franchise lifting the trophy.

Kulkarni, meanwhile, represented Mumbai Indians during the first six IPL seasons and was part of their maiden championship-winning team in 2013. He returned to the franchise for the 2020 and 2021 editions after previous spells with Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Lions. Across his IPL career, Kulkarni featured in 92 matches. He also represented India in 12 ODIs and two T20Is between 2014 and 2016.

Notably, these appointments follow Mumbai Indians’ decision to part ways with bowling coach Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey and fielding coach Carl Hopkinson. Malinga had been associated with the bowling department since IPL 2024. With Kieron Pollard taking charge as head coach, Mumbai Indians have assembled a revamped coaching group featuring several former players as they prepare for IPL 2027.

Also READ: Reason why Mumbai Indians parted ways with bowling coach Lasith Malinga ahead of IPL 2027