India, Oct. 24 -- Mumbai Indians have elevated former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard to the role of head coach for the IPL 2027 season following the departure of Mahela Jayawardene, the franchise announced on Saturday.

Pollard, 39, has been part of the Mumbai Indians setup for years, first as a player and later as the team's batting coach. His elevation marks another chapter in his long association with the franchise, which he represented as a player from 2009 until his final IPL appearance in 2022.

"MI has been a huge part of my life and career, and the bond I share with this team, the players and the Paltan means a great deal to me," Pollard said.

Having experienced the franchise as both a player and a coach, Pollard said he ...