Mumbai: Mahela Jayawardene has stepped down as head coach of Mumbai Indians, bringing an end to his decades-long association with the five-time Indian Premier League champions. The franchise announced his departure on Saturday, October 17.

Jayawardene, one of Sri Lanka’s greatest batsmen, joined Mumbai Indians in 2017 and led the side to three IPL titles in his first spell as head coach, in 2017, 2019 and 2020. He later moved into a wider role as the franchise’s Global Head of Performance in 2022, overseeing its teams across other leagues.

He returned to the head coach’s position after Mumbai Indians finished last in the 2024 season, replacing former South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Mark Boucher. However, the team could not regain its former dominance under him: it reached the second qualifier in 2025 before finishing ninth in the 2026 season.

In a statement, Jayawardene described Mumbai Indians as “a very special part” of his journey for more than a decade. He thanked the players, coaching staff, supporters and the Ambani family for their trust and support, adding that he would always carry a special place in his heart for the franchise.

The franchise’s controversial decision to appoint Hardik Pandya as captain in place of long-serving leader Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2024 season had angered many supporters.

A former captain of Kochi Tuskers Kerala and Delhi Daredevils, Jayawardene scored 25,957 international runs in 652 matches, with 54 centuries and 136 fifties.