Mahela Jayawardene (left) and Hardik PandyaNEW DELHI: Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene is likely to continue as Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach for the 2027 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), with the franchise reluctant to make sweeping changes. It is learnt that Jayawardene joined the five-time champions on a "two + one" contract in 2024 and could well be given another year, considering it will be the last year of the ongoing cycle.

A formal announcement is expected next month, provided there is no late change of heart. Under Jayawardene, Mumbai Indians reached the playoffs in 2025 but finished ninth the following year.

2026 was a disappointing season for the IPL giants, as they won only four games in a campaign marred by injuries, availability concerns and unrest in the dressing room. Since the disappointing last season, there has been a lot of chatter around their captain Hardik Pandya's potential trade.

While multiple franchises have expressed interest, there has yet to be any substantial movement on that front. com has also learnt that some dialogue has taken place with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), but the lack of a tradeable asset has not excited MI at the moment.

Cameron Green's name was on the table, but the MI think tank is wary of the Australian's workload next year, which includes Australia's packed Test calendar. As far as the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are concerned, some action is expected once they finalise their new head coach.

Don't be surprised if he [Hardik Pandya] is not traded at all. Discussions have also happened with the player along these lines.

For a trade to happen, multiple things need to fall into place. So it's not that straightforward.

SourcesHow will MI tackle the Pandya situation? They are keen on retaining him as a player for the upcoming season as they plan to head in a new direction under a new captain.

The management has already explored this idea, and it is learnt that former India and MI captain Rohit Sharma is actively involved in discussions about the captaincy and the team's direction. Returning Rohit to the captaincy was also an option, but a new face is likely as the 39-year-old is not keen to wear the armb and again.

Tilak Varma and Jasprit Bumrah are two potential options, with the scales tilting in the former's favour." Don't be surprised if he is not traded at all.