Mahela Jayawardene set to be retained as MI coach in IPL 2027, Hardik Pandya may stay back

Mahela Jayawardene is set to be retained as Mumbai Indians head coach for IPL 2027, with the franchise understood to be against making wholesale changes to its coaching structure. The legendary cricketer returned to the role ahead of IPL 2025 on a two-plus-one contract, and IPL 2027 will represent the final year of that arrangement.

Jayawardene has previously served as Mumbai Indians head coach between 2017 and 2022, guiding the franchise to three IPL titles during that period. A report has indicated that sources tracking the franchise's planning indicate the management has retained confidence in him to lead the coaching setup into IPL 2027, with his record from the first stint cited as a key consideration.

A formal announcement is expected in October 2026, barring any change of position from either party, according to The Times of India.

What about the Hardik Pandya trade?

Meanwhile, there is also an ongoing discussion that their skipper Hardik Pandya might not be traded, as talks with multiple franchises haven't resulted in any fruitful outcome for the five-time champions.

"Don't be surprised if he [Hardik Pandya] is not traded at all. Discussions have also happened with the player along these lines. For a trade to happen, multiple things need to fall into place. So it's not that straightforward," a source was quoted as saying by The Times of India.

Why is Jayawardene being retained despite a poor IPL 2026?

Mumbai Indians appear to have assessed Jayawardene's broader contribution to the franchise rather than judging him solely on one difficult season. His first stint delivered three IPL titles, and his return in IPL 2025 produced a playoff finish, giving the management sufficient grounds to persist with the current coaching arrangement heading into IPL 2027. The franchise's approach has leaned towards stability, with no appetite for an overhaul at this stage. Sources close to developments note that a fresh cycle of evaluation may follow after IPL 2027, but the immediate priority is continuity.

Why is Hardik Pandya trade looking difficult for Mumbai Indians?

Alongside the coaching continuity, Mumbai Indians face a significant decision over the captaincy for IPL 2027. Hardik Pandya led the side in IPL 2026, and multiple franchises have since expressed interest in acquiring him through a trade.

A dialogue has reportedly taken place with the Kolkata Knight Riders, though the absence of a suitable tradeable asset from their end has limited progress. Cameron Green's name was discussed as a possible trade piece, but the management is cautious about the Australian's workload given Australia's packed Test calendar ahead. Conversations with Chennai Super Kings are also expected to develop once that franchise confirms its new head coach.

What is the situation around Suryakumar Yadav?

Beyond these concerns, Mumbai Indians are also managing the future of Suryakumar Yadav, who endured a difficult IPL 2026 campaign. According to sources, the franchise is not inclined to release the experienced batter and plans to retain him for the upcoming season, in keeping with the club's established approach to senior players.

"Yes, he didn't have a good season last year, but what about the ones before that? MI will not discard a player based on one season, and that's not how they operate. They take pride in the 'One Family' tag and swear by it," the source added.