Mumbai Indians and head coach Mahela Jayawardene have mutually agreed to end their association, the franchise confirmed on 17 October 2026, as the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions prepare for a fresh coaching setup ahead of the next season. The split follows a disappointing 2026 IPL campaign in which Mumbai managed just four wins, finishing ninth in the standings.

Why the Parting Happened

The 2026 season proved a difficult one for the franchise, with injuries, player availability concerns and reportedly unsettled dressing-room dynamics combining to derail the campaign. Mumbai had reached the playoffs in 2025 before the steep drop-off a year later. According to reports, the franchise has already shortlisted several candidates to succeed Jayawardene, with interviews expected to be held in the coming week.

Jayawardene is reportedly unlikely to continue with Mumbai Indians in any other capacity following the exit.

A Decade That Delivered Three Titles

The departure draws the curtain on one of the most decorated coaching tenures in IPL history. Jayawardene first took charge of Mumbai Indians in 2017, guiding the franchise to the IPL trophy that year, then repeating the feat in 2019 and 2020 — including back-to-back titles in the latter two seasons. The former Sri Lanka captain subsequently moved into the role of global head of performance from 2022 to 2024, overseeing coaching, scouting and strategic planning across Mumbai's international franchise network.

He returned as head coach in 2024 under a two-plus-one-year arrangement, but the second stint could not replicate the success of the first. In all, his association with the franchise spanned over a decade, making him one of its most consequential figures.

What Jayawardene Said

Reflecting on his time at the franchise, Jayawardene expressed deep affection for the organisation and its people. 'Mumbai Indians has been a very special part of my journey for over a decade now. The players, coaching team, the incredible support of the #OneFamily and above all the fans have made this an experience I will always treasure. Together, we have shared some unforgettable moments, overcome challenges and built something we can all be proud of. I want to sincerely thank Mrs. Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their unwavering trust, support and friendship over the years. I leave with immense pride in what we have achieved together and will always carry a special place in my heart for MI. I wish the team every success in the years ahead,' he said.

The Ambanis Respond

Mumbai Indians owner Nita M. Ambani paid tribute to Jayawardene's decade-long service, calling his contribution significant and his leadership calm and principled. 'Mahela has made a significant contribution to Mumbai Indians over the years. His calm leadership, integrity and deep love for the game have meant so much to us. On behalf of the entire MI family, I want to thank Mahela for his immense contribution and unwavering commitment over the years. We will always cherish the journey we have shared and the memories we have created together. Mahela will always be a part of our #OneFamily, and we wish him every happiness and success in the journey ahead,' she said.

What Comes Next for Mumbai Indians

With a new coaching appointment imminent, Mumbai Indians enter their next IPL cycle at a crossroads. The franchise last lifted the trophy in 2020, and the search for their sixth title has stalled over the past five seasons. The incoming coach will face immediate pressure to rebuild team cohesion and restore the franchise to playoff contention. Candidate interviews are reportedly scheduled for the coming week, suggesting a decision could be announced well before the pre-season window opens.