Mumbai Indians Appoint Robin Uthappa as Batting Coach; Mitchell McClenaghan Joins IPL 2027 Coaching Staff

Mumbai, Oct 30: Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians have unveiled a revamped coaching group for the 2027 season, appointing former India batter Robin Uthappa as batting coach, Mitchell McClenaghan as bowling coach, T. Dilip as fielding coach and Dhawal Kulkarni as development bowling coach.

The four appointments will join head coach Kieron Pollard as Mumbai Indians look to build a strong coaching structure ahead of the upcoming season. The franchise said the new group brings together international experience, familiarity with the MI culture and a shared focus on player development and sustained success.

For Uthappa, McClenaghan and Kulkarni, the appointments mark a return to the franchise, having previously represented Mumbai Indians as players. Pollard, meanwhile, shares a 16-year association with the team.

Uthappa, a member of India's victorious squad at the inaugural ICC Men's T20 World Cup in 2007, will oversee the team's batting department. Having represented Mumbai Indians in 2008, he brings extensive experience in Indian and franchise cricket. His responsibilities will include strengthening batting strategies, improving tactical decision-making and helping players adapt to the evolving demands of T20 cricket.

McClenaghan returns as bowling coach after enjoying a successful playing career with Mumbai Indians between 2015 and 2020. The New Zealand pacer was part of four IPL-winning campaigns in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. His experience and aggressive approach to T20 bowling are expected to strengthen the team's bowling unit.

T. Dilip has been appointed fielding coach following his successful stint with the Indian men's team. He was part of the coaching setup during India's triumphs at the 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups and the 2025 Champions Trophy. He will focus on improving fielding standards, athleticism and consistency.

Kulkarni, a two-time IPL champion with Mumbai Indians in 2013 and 2020, takes charge as development bowling coach. Having represented the franchise across two spells, he will work closely with young Indian bowlers and support their development throughout the year.

The appointments follow Mumbai Indians' decision to part ways with bowling mentor Lasith Malinga, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and fielding coach Carl Hopkinson.

Under Pollard's leadership, the revamped coaching group will aim to strengthen the franchise's player development programme and prepare Mumbai Indians for another title challenge in IPL 2027.