Kieron Pollard was the first person to lift Lasith Malinga on his shoulders after the fast bowler delivered the famous title-winning last over for the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL 2019 final against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Incidentally, Malinga has been sacked as the MI bowling coach soon after Pollard has become the head coach of the franchise ahead of the IPL auction.
On Thursday, MI announced three more changes to their coaching staff as the franchise undergoes a transition phase in the backroom.
MI have parted ways with Malinga, Paras Mhambrey, and Carl Hopkinson but have not yet named their replacements. Both Malinga and Mhambrey were the MI bowling coaches, and Hopkinson was the team’s fielding coach.
MI stated in a release, “Mumbai Indians extend their heartfelt gratitude to Lasith, Paras, and Carl for their contributions to the team and the wider MI family.
”Their commitment, the relationships they have built and the memories they have helped create will always be part of our journey.”
Lasith Malinga has been an integral part of the Mumbai Indians family, says MI
In their press release, MI thanked Malinga for his services that included his career as a player also, hailing the Sri Lankan as “one of the most iconic figures in the franchise’s history.”
Malinga featured in 122 IPL matches for MI, taking 170 wickets at an average of 19 and an economy rate of 7.14.
He was part of four IPL-winning seasons: 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019. Malinga bowled the last over of the IPL 2019 final against CSK, successfully defending nine runs against Shane Watson and Ravindra Jadeja; on the last ball, CSK needed two runs but Malinga trapped Shardul Thakur lbw to seal the trophy.
Malinga joined MI as the fast-bowling coach before the IPL 2024 season, replacing Shane Bond.
MI stated, “Lasith Malinga has been an integral part of the Mumbai Indians family and one of the most iconic figures in the franchise’s history. From spearheading MI’s bowling attack and playing a defining role in four IPL title triumphs and the 2011 Champions League T20 victory, to returning as a mentor and coach, Lasith’s journey with MI has been truly special. His passion, competitive spirit and commitment to the team have inspired generations of players. His legacy will forever remain an important part of Mumbai Indians.”
Mhambrey, who was under Rahul Dravid’s coaching staff at the Indian cricket team, had previously been at MI from 2010 to 2017, and his second stint began in 2024. England’s Hopkinson joined MI ahead of the IPL 2025 tournament, replacing New Zealand’s James Pamment.
MI finished 9th in the 10-team IPL 2026, and have not reached the IPL final since 2020.
MI have revamped their coaching staff, but the bigger debate remains around captain Hardik Pandya. Rumors suggest MI is in talks with other franchises regarding a trade of Pandya.
The trading window closes mid-November and will open again after the auction.
When is the IPL auction?
This year, the IPL auction will take place in Goa on December 16. The deadline for announcing the retained and released players is November 15.
Get the Latest Cricket Updates at IceCric.News. Also, Follow Our Social Media for live updates on Facebook and Instagram.
