Mumbai Indians have introduced a significant update to their support staff as the five‑time IPL champions seek to enhance their setup for the upcoming season. The franchise has brought on board a seasoned cricket professional to its performance team, who will work closely with the Indian players throughout the year.
This move follows Mumbai Indians’ efforts to overcome recent challenges and build a more robust structure outside the IPL window. The new staff member has already begun duties with the franchise and is presently accompanying a group of young players on a tour in South Africa.
Mumbai Indians bring in experienced figure for new role
Mumbai Indians have appointed Zubin Bharucha as their director of performance. In this role, he will collaborate with the franchise’s Indian players during the off‑season, liaise with the coaching staff to help them meet individual performance goals, and work alongside assistant coach Paras Mhambrey at the Mumbai‑based facility year‑round. Bharucha has already assumed his responsibilities and is currently on a South Africa tour with a group of young Mumbai Indians players and Mhambrey.
Bharucha has been associated with the IPL since its inaugural edition in 2008. A former Mumbai cricketer, he represented the state at age‑group level before making his first‑class debut in the 1992‑93 season. He featured in 17 first‑class matches and 11 List A games before retiring from playing in 1994‑95. Thereafter he transitioned into administration and coaching, earning a reputation for his expertise within Mumbai cricket circles.
He joined the Rajasthan Royals as team director in 2008, staying with the franchise until 2015. Afterward, he served as technical director for the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) during the 2016 and 2017 seasons. Bharucha returned to the Rajasthan Royals in 2018 as director of cricket, a position he held through 2025.
Mumbai Indians aim for stronger performances
The appointment arrives as Mumbai Indians aim to lift their recent IPL performance. Although they have lifted the trophy five times, the side has failed to reach the playoffs in four of the last six seasons. Mahela Jayawardene continues as head coach, with Kieron Pollard and Lasith Malinga serving as batting and bowling coaches respectively.
This addition provides the franchise with another experienced voice dedicated to player development and year‑round preparation. With work already underway in South Africa, Mumbai Indians hope the revised performance structure will help them regain their top form for IPL 2027.
