Kieron Pollard says Mumbai Indians must acknowledge recent shortcomings

Newly appointed Mumbai Indians head coach Kieron Pollard said the franchise has not met fan expectations in recent seasons. He called that admission the first step toward improvement.

Pollard spoke in a video posted on the team's social media channels on Saturday. He said the team must restore the passion and spirit fans associate with the Blue and Gold. The first task, he added, is understanding what needs to be fixed and bringing energy back to Wankhede Stadium.

Mumbai Indians have not won an IPL title since 2020. They finished ninth in 2026 after missing the playoffs for the second time in three seasons. Pollard said there is no hiding from the recent slump.