Malinga, Mhambrey and Hopkinson exit Mumbai Indians coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027

Changes to the Mumbai Indians (MI) coaching set-up continue ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027. Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey and Carl Hopkinson have now also left the coaching staff of the five-time champions. The franchise itself announced this on Thursday.

The franchise said on its website that the three are being released from their respective roles in the men's team coaching set-up. It said it thanks them for the commitment they showed, the contribution they made and the service they gave the franchise.

Malinga has been an important member of the Mumbai Indians family and is one of the most iconic figures in the franchise's history. Leading MI's bowling attack, winning four IPL titles and playing a key role in the 2011 Champions League T20 win are all to his name. His journey with MI, up to his return to the team first as mentor and later as coach, was a special one. His fighting spirit, his willingness to take on the opposition and his commitment to the team inspired several generations of players. The franchise said his legacy will remain an important part of Mumbai Indians.

Mhambrey, too, has had a long and valuable association with Mumbai Indians. He was with the team from 2010 to 2017 and returned to MI in 2024. On both occasions he came with plenty of experience and an understanding of the finer points of cricket culture. No one was like Mhambrey when it came to developing the team's new bowlers and improving their game. He has also been praised from time to time for the bowlers' good performances.

Hopkinson joined Mumbai Indians in the 2025 season. He came to the franchise with significant international experience with the England men's team. He had a major hand in improving the team's fielding. It was also said that he was a good fit with the franchise in terms of professional role, specialist skill and commitment.

The MI management thanked the three. "Heartfelt thanks from the MI family to Lasith, Paras and Carl. They have always made a valuable contribution to the franchise's journey. The bond and memories with them will always remain a part of our franchise. We wish them the best for their future careers," the management said. At Mumbai Indians, Malinga and Mhambrey were bowling coaches, while Hopkinson worked as fielding coach.