Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene has been appointed as the new head coach of Indian Premier League team Mumbai Indians for the 2017 season, the Mumbai Indians revealed on Friday.
“Jayawardene is an astute figure in the modern era of cricket. He is a perfect role-model for the young Mumbai Indians squad. I am sure our global fans who have always believed in the team and expect the best will welcome Mahela to our Mumbai Indians family”, a statement from Nita Ambani, owner of the Mumbai Indians, read.
Jayawardene has rich experience in limited overs cricket having being part of the Sri Lankan squad that won the 2014 World T20. He also lead his country to the finals of 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup.
The Sri Lankan, while accepting the challenge has termed his new assignment as the “start of a new chapter” and is looking forward to bringing the best of his life learning to the field.
"I am very excited by the appointment and glad that the Mumbai Indians management appreciated my presentation and ideas," Jayawardene said.
"I am looking forward to working with a really talented squad, all the support staff, and the owners to help strengthen the two-time IPL champions. Mumbai Indians have the most passionate fan base in the IPL and I have always been wowed by the amazing support the team gets at Wankhede Stadium. In what is a new chapter in my career, I will be striving hard to bring them more on-field success and joy,” he added.
Image: Mahela Jayawardene
Photograph: Tom Shaw/Getty Images