The Mumbai Indians (MI) have named Nike, the global sportswear brand, the official kit partner of the franchise’s men’s and women’s teams from the 2027 season. The agreement marks Nike’s return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after 19 years and brings together two major names in global sport.
Nike will provide apparel for players, coaches and staff across matches, training sessions and other team activities. The collaboration will also connect cricket with Mumbai’s culture through team merchandise and storytelling, giving fans new ways to celebrate the franchise’s blue and gold identity.
Nike Returns to the IPL After 19 Years
Nike has signed a multi-year kit partnership with Mumbai, returning to the IPL after its association with the Deccan Chargers during the tournament’s inaugural season in 2008.
Tarundeep Singh, General Manager of Nike India, said Mumbai Indians’ energy and ambition made the franchise a natural partner for the brand.
“Cricket is woven into the heartbeat of India, and few teams capture its energy like Mumbai Indians,” Singh said.
“The club embodies the ambition and belief that make sport so powerful. That’s exactly what drew Nike to this partnership, which represents our effort to serve athletes, celebrate the game and help inspire the next generation.”
Mumbai Indians have built a strong reputation for identifying talent and supporting players across men’s and women’s cricket. The franchise has also developed a large fan community, known as the Paltan.
Devang Bhimjyani, Head of Reliance Sports, said the partnership would reflect the franchise’s connection with its players, supporters and home city.
“Mumbai Indians have always been about more than cricket,” Bhimjyani said. “We are one family — our players, our Paltan — built on nurturing talent, backing it fearlessly, and playing for a city that never stops.”
That Could Be Me – Tilak Varma on Nike Partnership
Batter and Nike athlete Tilak Varma said the agreement held personal significance because both the franchise and the sportswear brand had played important roles in his journey.
“Mumbai Indians backed me and gave me the opportunity to express myself on the big stage. Nike has been part of my journey too, so bringing these two families together feels personal,” Varma said.
“Wearing the MI colors with the Nike Swoosh will remind me of how far I’ve come — and how much more I want to achieve. Somewhere, there’s a kid in the nets dreaming of playing in blue and gold. I want them to see us and think, That could be me.”
Players and staff are set to begin wearing team apparel, while the men’s and women’s teams will unveil their new kits ahead of their respective 2027 seasons. Fans will also get access to additional apparel inspired by Mumbai’s identity, energy and culture.
Mumbai Indians Face Major Personnel Changes Ahead of 2027
MI are in an uncertain period ahead of the 2027 IPL season. The franchise has endured a difficult three-year stretch and has not won the IPL title since 2020.
Mahela Jayawardene has stepped down as head coach, leaving Mumbai Indians looking for a replacement ahead of the next campaign. The franchise could also face a change in leadership, with ongoing discussions suggesting that Hardik Pandya might leave before the 2027 season.
If Pandya departs, Mumbai could need to appoint both a new captain and a new head coach. The franchise will hope that changes in personnel can improve its fortunes after recent disappointing seasons.
