Kieron Pollard has knowledgeable Joburg Tremendous Kings that he will probably be unavailable for the upcoming SA20 season, a day after his appointment as Mumbai Indians’ head coach for IPL 2027. The Chennai Tremendous Kings-owned franchise signed the former West Indies all-rounder for R1.5 million at the auction earlier this month.
Pollard has been carefully associated with MI since joining the franchise as a 22-year-old in 2010. He played for the workforce throughout 13 seasons, winning five titles earlier than retiring from the IPL in 2022. The veteran cricketer later continued as Mumbai Indians’ batting coach and represented its teams in abroad leagues.
Kieron Pollard Withdrew from Joburg Tremendous Kings’ SA20 Campaign
Mumbai Indians had no objection to Kieron Pollard representing one other franchise in a special league. In keeping with Cricbuzz, the management had left the decision to the former all-rounder.
“It is up to KP on the matter. We have now given no directions,” theg Tremendous Kings
MI Cape Town decided to not bid for Pollard. They signed West Indies batter Shimron Hetmyer for a similar quantity. Hetmyer’s identify got here up earlier than Pollard’s, and the franchise couldn’t risk ready for the latter with out knowing whether or not one other workforce would outbid them.
Joburg Tremendous Kings belong to the Chennai Tremendous Kings group, whereas Mumbai Indians’ owners additionally operate MI Cape Town in the same competition. CSK chief government Kasi Viswanathan confirmed the event and said the franchise would search for a replacement.
“He has conveyed to us that he will not be able to play for Joburg Tremendous Kings,” Viswanathan said. The fifth SA20 season is scheduled to run from January 17 to February 21, 2027.
Kieron Pollard Replaces Mahela Jayawardene as Mumbai Indians Head Coach
Kieron Pollard has been appointed Mumbai Indians’ head coach for IPL 2027, replacing Mahela Jayawardene. The franchise reportedly finalised his identify three to 4 days earlier than the announcement and called him to Mumbai for discussions on Thursday.
Group proprietor Nita Ambani highlighted his 16-year affiliation with the franchise and his understanding of its tradition.
“Pollard joined Mumbai Indians as a young 22-year-old and, over the previous sixteen years, has become an integral part of our family. As a player, he gave us many unforgettable moments, and as a coach, he has continued to share his experience, passion and deep understanding of the sport. We are delighted to see him take on this new accountability as Head Coach. Polly is aware of what it means to put on the MI jersey and what it takes to play for the Paltan,” Ambani said.
Kieron Pollard’s MI Appointment Raises Questions Over Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma
Kieron Pollard has continued to play for Mumbai Indians-owned teams in abroad competitions since retiring from the IPL. He represented MI Cape Town in 12 matches, MI New York in 30 and MI Emirates in 25.
He additionally plays for Trinbago Knight Riders within the Caribbean Premier League, the place Mumbai Indians don’t own a franchise, and serves as head coach of MI London in The Hundred.
Mumbai Indians face necessary squad decisions ahead of IPL 2027. Pollard is thought to share a detailed relationship with all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been linked with a possible trade.
However, whether or not the coaching change will affect the franchise’s plans remains unsure. His close affiliation with former captain Rohit Sharma might additionally become relevant as Mumbai Indians assess their leadership options.
Supply: cricketaddictor.com
