Mumbai Indians’ Next Coach: Two Australian Greats in the Race, but a South African Is the Preferred Choice

Mumbai Indians shocked their fans by announcing Mahela Jayawardene’s departure as head coach. The Sri Lankan ranks alongside Stephen Fleming among the IPL’s most successful coaches. MI won three IPL titles under Jayawardene—in 2017, 2019 and 2020—all with Rohit Sharma as captain. He coached the franchise from 2017 to 2022 and returned ahead of IPL 2025.

The search for his replacement has brought several names into discussion, including Rahul Dravid and Eoin Morgan. However, according to information received by CricInformer, neither is currently interested in the role. Dravid wants to spend more time with his two sons instead of focusing on IPL coaching, while Morgan prefers to concentrate on commentary.

MI’s next coach would take charge of one of the IPL’s most successful and popular franchises. Their squad has a strong Indian core, with several players representing India in T20 cricket. Getting the best out of that talent will be a major responsibility for whoever takes over.

Let’s take a look at the leading candidates for Mumbai Indians’ head coach role. The third name on the list might surprise you!

1. Aaron Finch: A World Cup-Winning Captain

Aaron Finch’s biggest strength is his experience of leading teams in white-ball cricket. He captained Australia to their first men’s T20 World Cup title in 2021 and led Melbourne Renegades to their maiden Big Bash League title in 2018–19.

His captaincy experience also includes Pune Warriors India in IPL 2013 and San Francisco Unicorns in the inaugural Major League Cricket season in 2023. That gives him experience of working with players from different countries and handling the demands of franchise cricket.

Known for his aggressive opening batting, Finch also brings a strong understanding of T20 tactics. Planning ahead, making quick changes and giving players clear roles were important parts of his approach as captain.

Finch is understood to have a good relationship with Rohit Sharma and several people within the Mumbai Indians setup. He has reportedly held discussions with three or four franchises but is particularly interested in the MI opportunity. His familiarity with the people involved could help him settle into the role.

2. Mike Hussey: Nine Seasons of CSK Coaching Experience

Mike Hussey brings extensive knowledge of Indian conditions and the experience of working within a successful IPL setup. Appointed Chennai Super Kings’ batting coach in January 2018, he served through the 2026 season—a period covering nine IPL campaigns.

During that stint, CSK won the IPL in 2018, 2021 and 2023, while also finishing runners-up in 2019. Working alongside Stephen Fleming and MS Dhoni gave Hussey years of experience preparing batters for different situations and the pressure of knockout matches.

Popularly known as “Mr Cricket”, Hussey was an excellent player of spin. His understanding of batting on Indian pitches is an important part of his case to become Mumbai Indians’ next coach.

Hussey has an eye for identifying talent at the grassroots level and helping young players develop. For a franchise with an established Indian core and emerging talent, those qualities could be valuable.

Although Hussey had earlier considered stepping away from IPL coaching, he is understood to be interested in continuing in the competition and remains firmly in contention.

3. Adrian Birrell: The South African MI Prefer

Adrian Birrell may be less familiar to some IPL followers, but his recent coaching results explain Mumbai Indians’ interest.

Under his guidance, Sunrisers Eastern Cape won three SA20 titles in four seasons, lifting the trophy in 2023, 2024 and 2026. They also reached the final in 2025, giving Birrell four successive final appearances.

He followed that success by guiding Sunrisers Leeds to a runners-up finish in his first season as a Women’s Hundred head coach in 2026. Delivering results with different groups of players strengthens his credentials beyond a single successful team.

Birrell connects closely with players, quickly identifies weaknesses and helps them improve. He understands what each player needs and works with them to get the best out of their abilities.

Of the three leading candidates, Mumbai Indians are understood to be most interested in Birrell. However, he is currently reluctant to take up an IPL coaching role.

Whether MI can persuade him to reconsider could decide the direction of their search. A suitable offer may change his position, but his willingness to accept the job remains the key issue.