One Failed Season, MI Coach Out: RCB Title Winner In

Mumbai Indians have made a big change ahead of WPL 2027, with RCB’s title winning coach Luke Williams taking charge of the franchise.

Williams has replaced Lisa Keightley, who has decided to move on from her role after just one season as Mumbai Indians head coach. The franchise confirmed the change on Thursday.

Williams is no stranger to the WPL. He guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their maiden WPL title in 2024 and was also part of their coaching setup in 2025.

The Australian coach stepped away from RCB before the 2026 season because of a scheduling clash with his Adelaide Strikers commitments in the Women’s Big Bash League. He will now take charge of one of RCB’s former rivals.

I’m really excited to be joining Mumbai Indians, Williams said after his appointment. He also said the team has an opportunity to build something together and play an exciting brand of cricket.

Lisa Keightley was appointed ahead of WPL 2026 after Charlotte Edwards left the role to become England head coach.

Lisa Keightley will now continue her work with Cricket Australia and as head coach of Sydney Thunder in the WBBL.

Williams has little time before his first major task with Mumbai Indians. The retention deadline for WPL 2027 is September 28, while the mini-auction will be held in Kochi on October 28.

With Harmanpreet Kaur continuing as captain, Williams will now have to work on Mumbai Indians squad plans before the franchise begins its next WPL campaign.