Anil Kumble set to take over as Mumbai Indians mentor

Mumbai Indians mentor

MUMBAI: Former India captain and current chairman of the International Cricket Council technical committee Anil Kumble will join the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Mumbai Indians as its chief mentor.

In doing so, Kumble will replace Shaun Pollock who started as a player with the Mumbai team in 2008 and went on to take up the mentor's role. Kumble's assignment with his new employers will begin starting IPL 6 this year.

"Mumbai Indians is a very competitive team in the IPL and it is my honour to join the franchise as its chief mentor," Kumble said on Monday.

The third highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, Kumble took over as ICC's technical head in October this year. He was also associated with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for the last five years as player and mentor.

RCB said on Monday that the franchise and Kumble have agreed to a separation with immediate effect. "It is a consensual decision after considering various aspects," the franchise said in a statement.

"Anil has been a great asset to RCB as captain, chief mentor and advisor. He helped shape the entire team and was instrumental in creating a unique sense of passion and commitment," RCB owner Vijay Mallya said.

Mumbai Indians are expected to undergo a complete overhaul with Kumble's appointment.

The franchise may see middle order batsman Rohit Sharma elevated as captain in place of off-spinner Harbhajan Singh this season.

Kumble's role will also be to work towards the 2014 player auctions, which is likely to see all capped cricketers going back into the auction pool again.


Mumbai Indians have made it to the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) only once, in 2010, when they lose to Chennai Super Kings, and are yet to lay their hands on the title.

However, they won the Champions League T20 in 2011. Kumble's role therefore assumes importance in helping the beleaguered franchise to bring home the eluding trophy.

Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians are yet to officially announce if the rest of the team's support staff will continue. It is reliably learnt that team coach Robin Singh has joined the US national team as head coach and there is uncertainty over his availability this season.