Mumbai Indians Part Ways with Malinga, Mhambrey and Hopkinson in Coaching Overhaul

Mumbai Indians have continued their sweeping backroom restructure, parting ways with bowling coaches Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey, along with fielding coach Carl Hopkinson. The decisions follow the recent departure of head coach Mahela Jayawardene and the appointment of Kieron Pollard as his replacement.

Malinga’s exit brings to an end one of the most enduring associations in the franchise’s history. The Sri Lankan great spearheaded Mumbai’s bowling attack as a player, playing a defining role in four IPL title triumphs and the 2011 Champions League T20 victory, before returning to the setup as a mentor and coach.

“Lasith Malinga has been an integral part of the Mumbai Indians family and one of the most iconic figures in the franchise’s history,” the franchise said in a statement. “From spearheading MI’s bowling attack and playing a defining role in four IPL title triumphs and the 2011 Champions League T20 victory, to returning as a mentor and coach, Lasith’s journey with MI has been truly special. His passion, competitive spirit and commitment to the team have inspired generations of players. His legacy will forever remain an important part of Mumbai Indians.”

A Long Association Ends

Mhambrey’s departure closes a relationship that spanned multiple spells. He first joined Mumbai’s support staff in the inaugural IPL season in 2008, then served a long stint from 2010 to 2017, a period encompassing the franchise’s maiden title and the CLT20 successes in 2011 and 2013. He returned in 2024, arriving directly after being part of India’s T20 World Cup-winning support staff, and spent two further seasons with the club. He was also appointed bowling coach of MI Emirates.

“Paras Mhambrey has shared a long and valued association with Mumbai Indians, first from 2010 to 2017 and subsequently returning in 2024. Across both spells, Paras has brought immense experience, dedication and a deep understanding of the MI culture. His contribution to developing and nurturing the team’s bowling talent, along with the relationships he has built over the years, has been greatly appreciated,” the statement read.

Hopkinson arrived ahead of the 2025 season, replacing James Pamment. His credentials included a stint as the ECB’s Lead Fielding Coach for the England men’s team from 2018 to 2024, during which he contributed to England’s World Cup wins in 2019 and 2022.

The three departures leave Pollard with considerable scope to reshape the coaching staff as he begins his tenure as head coach. For a franchise that has built its identity on continuity and internal promotion, the scale of the turnover marks a decisive break with the structures that defined its most successful era.

                                               

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