Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene has stepped down as head coach of Mumbai Indians (MI) following a disappointing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign, the franchise confirmed on Saturday.
The 49-year-old has ended his second stint as the five-time IPL champions’ head coach after two seasons, having returned to the position ahead of the 2025 edition.
Jayawardene’s departure comes after Mumbai Indians finished ninth in IPL 2026, a significant setback for a franchise that had reached the playoffs the previous year.
In an official statement, the former Sri Lankan batter reflected on his long association with Mumbai Indians and expressed gratitude to the franchise’s management, players and supporters.
“Mumbai Indians has been a very special part of my journey for over a decade now,” Jayawardene said.
“The players, coaching team, the incredible support of the #OneFamily and above all the fans have made this an experience I will always treasure.”
He also acknowledged the challenges and achievements during his time with the franchise, while thanking owners Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their continued support.
“Together, we have shared some unforgettable moments, overcome challenges and built something we can all be proud of. I want to sincerely thank Mrs Nita Ambani and Akash Ambani for their unwavering trust, support and friendship over the years,” he added.
“I leave with immense pride in what we have achieved together and will always carry a special place in my heart for MI. I wish the team every success in the years ahead.”
Jayawardene first took charge of Mumbai Indians in 2017 and enjoyed a highly successful six-season spell, guiding the franchise to three IPL titles in 2017, 2019 and 2020.
Under his leadership, MI became the first franchise to successfully defend an IPL title when they lifted the trophy in 2020, having also won the previous edition.
Following his initial coaching stint, Jayawardene was appointed the franchise’s global head of performance in 2022.
During his tenure in that position, he oversaw Mumbai Indians’ wider franchise network, including MI Emirates in the International League T20 (ILT20), MI New York in Major League Cricket (MLC) and MI Cape Town in South Africa’s SA20.
The Sri Lankan legend subsequently returned as Mumbai Indians head coach ahead of IPL 2025, replacing former South African wicketkeeper-batter Mark Boucher. However, his second stint failed to replicate the success of his first.
Mumbai Indians finished fourth in the league standings in 2025 and advanced to Qualifier 2, where their campaign came to an end. Their fortunes declined further in IPL 2026 as they finished ninth, extending their title drought to six seasons.