Pollard hired as MI's batting coach hours after announcing IPL retirement

Kieron Pollard in MI colours (PC: Twitter)

It was certainly on the cards as many linked Kieron Pollard's retirement from the Indian Premier League with a new chapter in his IPL career. In what capacity would the Mumbai Indians hire the legendary T20 cricketer was always a query, but now it has been officially announced. 

The most successful IPL franchise has brought in the former West Indies captain as their batting coach. 

While announcing Pollard's hiring as batting coach, MI's owner Akash Ambani said Polly will be leaving a "huge legacy" as player and announced that he will be playing for MI Emirates in the maiden edition of ILT20. 

"Pleased to have Polly continue to be a part of the MI Family as a batting coach for Mumbai Indians and as player with MI Emirates. Polly will be as dynamic and impactful as a coach, just like the way he was, when he took to the field for us," Ambani commented.

"His insights will be invaluable to the team, though the Mumbai Indians, Wankhede Stadium and the Paltan will miss him play on the field,"  he further stated. 

The 35-year-old was the first pick of Akash Ambani, in a silent bid, before the 2010 edition and was later termed the golden pick for Mumbai. He went on to become one of the most successful players in IPL history - helping his franchise win five IPL titles and two Champions League titles. 

Pollard also opined on his transition from a player to MI’s batting coach by saying he’ll be continuing playing for a couple more years but cannot see himself playing against MI. 

“Once an MI, always an MI. I am immensely proud, honoured and blessed to have represented the biggest and most successful team in the IPL for the past 13 seasons,” Pollard cited.

He further expressed, “I recall our first encounter when they welcomed me with open arms saying, ‘We are family’. Those were not just mere words, but demonstrated by their every action throughout my time with Mumbai Indians.”

Also Read: Who can Mumbai Indians release before the auction