Former Sri Lankan international and captain Mahela Jayawardene has been appointed as the new Head Coach of Mumbai Indians.

Mahela Jayawardene’s appointment has come in the wake of Ricky Pointing – coach for the previous two years – contract coming to a close.

An authoritative captain and a prolific batsman of his generation – Mahela Jayawardene will take charge of Mumbai Indians for the upcoming season (2017) of Indian Premier League.

Commenting on the Sri Lankan’s appointment, Mrs Nita Ambani, Mumbai Indians said, “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 expects the best – will welcome Mahela to our Mumbai Indians family.”

Jayawardene has rich experience in limited overs cricket having being part of the winning World T20 2014 Sri Lankan squad and leading the country to the finals of 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup. The 39-year-old possesses the requisite attitude and the appetite for a new role in his career.

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,” said Mahela Jayawardene adding, “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.”

Mahela Jayawardene will soon be traveling to Mumbai to conduct a detail meeting with the club management and to take charge of his new office.