Mumbai Indians have begun looking for a new head coach following Mahela Jayawardene’s departure, but several high-profile names linked with the five-time IPL champions are unlikely to take up the role. Former India head coach Rahul Dravid has ruled himself out for another season, while Australia’s Adam Gilchrist and England’s Eoin Morgan are also understood to be unavailable.

With no clear successor identified yet, Mumbai Indians are expected to begin their interview process soon. Mike Hussey, Adrian Birrell and Aaron Finch are among the names reportedly on the radar of the franchise and other IPL teams.

Rahul Dravid Not Available for IPL 2027

Dravid had emerged as a potential candidate after Jayawardene’s exit, given his success with the Indian national team. He guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title and led the side to the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup.

However, according to reports, Dravid wants to focus on his family and the cricketing careers of his sons, Samit and Anvay. He is therefore not considering a return to the IPL coaching circuit for the 2027 season.

Dravid received several offers after leaving Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026 but has resisted the opportunity to return to the tournament. Although a future comeback remains possible, he is not expected to join Mumbai Indians next season.

Gilchrist and Morgan, who have also been mentioned in connection with the vacancy, are similarly understood to be unavailable after communicating their positions to IPL managements.

Mike Hussey, Aaron Finch Among Potential Candidates

With some prominent names out of contention, Mumbai Indians could turn their attention to other experienced figures in international and franchise cricket.

Mike Hussey is one potential candidate. The former Australia batter recently parted ways with Chennai Super Kings and has reportedly approached IPL franchises about possible coaching opportunities. He is believed to remain open to another IPL assignment, although his next move has not been confirmed.

Hussey reportedly declined an opportunity to join England’s setup under Stephen Fleming and may also be considering a role in Australian cricket.

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch is another name being discussed. Finch is understood to have held talks with several IPL franchises, although it remains unclear whether he has had direct discussions with Mumbai Indians.

Both Hussey and Finch could attract interest because of their international experience and understanding of modern T20 cricket.

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Adrian Birrell Emerges as an Interesting Option

South African coach Adrian Birrell is another prominent name linked with the Mumbai Indians vacancy. Birrell has built an impressive record in franchise cricket, guiding Sunrisers Eastern Cape to three titles and four finals across four SA20 seasons.

He also led Sunrisers Leeds Women to the final of The Hundred earlier this year, further strengthening his reputation as a successful franchise coach.

Birrell currently coaches Sharjah Warriorz in the ILT20 and is reportedly not keen on moving to an IPL franchise at present. However, if he reconsiders, Mumbai Indians and other teams could explore the possibility of appointing him.

A notable former India player is also reportedly being monitored by multiple IPL franchises, although no further details have emerged about the potential candidate.

New Coach Could Decide Fate of Existing Support Staff

Mumbai Indians’ search for Jayawardene’s replacement will also have implications for the rest of the coaching staff. The franchise is understood to have left the decision on retaining existing support personnel to the incoming head coach.

The current group includes Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey in bowling roles, Kieron Pollard as batting coach and Carl Hopkinson as fielding coach. Their contracts have either expired or are due to end over the next couple of months.

The incoming coach could therefore have a significant say in shaping the support structure for IPL 2027, depending on the franchise’s plans and the candidates’ preferences.

Mumbai Indians officials reportedly met on Friday evening and decided to part ways with Jayawardene, whose contract was approaching its end. The franchise is now expected to move towards the interview stage as it considers potential replacements.

Jayawardene’s Legacy at Mumbai Indians

Jayawardene’s departure closes a significant chapter in Mumbai Indians’ history. Across two stints as head coach, from 2017 to 2022 and again from 2024 to 2026, he oversaw three of the franchise’s five IPL title victories—in 2017, 2019 and 2020.

Team owner Nita Ambani praised his calm leadership, integrity and commitment to the franchise, acknowledging the contribution he made over the years.

Jayawardene, meanwhile, said he was proud of what the team had achieved together and would always retain a special place in his heart for Mumbai Indians.

The franchise now faces the challenge of finding a successor capable of restoring consistency after a disappointing 2026 campaign. With Dravid, Gilchrist and Morgan seemingly unavailable, the focus could shift towards candidates such as Hussey, Finch and Birrell as Mumbai Indians prepare for the next phase of their IPL journey.