Mumbai Indians (MI) are now searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Mahela Jayawardene, but some big names have already declined the offer. Former India head coach Rahul Dravid and Australian legend Adam Gilchrist have reportedly refused to take the MI job.
Former England captain Eoin Morgan is also reportedly not interested in becoming the Mumbai Indian head coach. With several expected candidates ruled out, the five-time champions are yet to finalise who will take charge of the team ahead of IPL 2027.
Rahul Dravid and two other big names turn down IPL 2027 coaching offers
Rahul Dravid, who guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title and the 2023 ODI World Cup final, is reportedly keen to focus on his family and his sons Samit and Anvay.
The legendary batter received several offers after leaving Rajasthan Royals before the 2026 season, but he has decided not to return to the IPL coaching setup for now. He might consider returning to the IPL in 2028, but 2027 is not on his radar.
A source was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz, “He wants to focus on his family and his sons’ careers.”
Adam Gilchrist and Eoin Morgan are also not available for the coaching job, and they have already sent their message to the IPL management as claimed by Cricbuzz. Amid this, Sanjay Govil eyes Melbourne Renegades and Hobart Hurricanes, but refuses to enter BBL bidding war.
Mike Hussey, Aaron Finch among names in race for the MI head coach job
Mike Hussey, who recently parted ways with Chennai Super Kings, is reportedly ready for another IPL role and has reportedly contacted franchises. It is being said that the former Australian cricketer has recently turned down an offer to join the England setup under Stephen Fleming.
The former CSK coach could consider working in Australia. South African coach Adrian Birrell and former Australia captain Aaron Finch are also among the names being discussed. Birrell has built a strong record in franchise cricket, guiding Sunrisers Eastern Cape to three SA20 titles and four finals in four seasons. He also led Sunrisers Leeds Women to the Hundred final earlier this year.
However, Birrell is reportedly not keen on moving to an IPL team presently. However, Finch has reportedly held talks with several IPL franchises, though his discussions with MI remain unclear.
Mumbai Indians’ big shake-up looms as Malinga, Pollard and other coaches’ future uncertain
Mumbai Indians have reportedly left the decision on the existing support staff to their next head coach for the upcoming IPL 2027. MI’s bowling coaches Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey, batting coach Kieron Pollard and fielding coach Carl Hopkinson could all face uncertainty, as their contracts have expired or are due to end soon.
The franchise is expected to begin interviews for the head coach position shortly, as the MI management is also busy with the Jio IPO planned for later this month.
Jayawardene’s exit marks the end of an important chapter for Mumbai Indians. The former Sri Lanka captain left with pride in what they achieved together, having led them to three titles.
