Mumbai Indians turn to Nike and Kieron Pollard for 2027 reset
The kit partnership and coaching overhaul signal a deliberate attempt to refresh brand identity and results after consecutive disappointing seasons.
Mumbai Indians signed a multi-year kit supply deal with Nike starting in 2027, ending the company's 18-year absence from IPL kit partnerships. The franchise finished ninth in IPL 2026 with four wins and ten losses, prompting further structural changes. Mahela Jayawardene departed as head coach after mixed results while Kieron Pollard was appointed his replacement ahead of the 2027 season.
Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma are viewed as leading captaincy candidates, though Hardik Pandya's future role remains uncertain. Bevon Jacobs credited his stint with Mumbai Indians for improving his game during the recently concluded New Zealand tour. The franchise also retained services of former players Lasith Malinga as bowling coach and Paras Mhambrey, who worked with the side from 2010 to 2017 before returning in 2024.
The combination of a new kit supplier, head coach and possible captaincy transition marks the most significant off-season overhaul in the franchise's recent history. Mumbai Indians have not reached the playoffs since 2023.
CricHubb Take
Replacing Jayawardene with Pollard while courting Rohit Sharma for the captaincy suggests the franchise is betting on continuity with its former captain rather than a complete leadership break.