Mumbai Indians appoint Luke Williams as head coach ahead of WPL 2027

Mumbai Indians have appointed Luke Williams as the head coach of the women's team in the build up to Women's Premier League 2027. The former South Australian cricketer takes over from Lisa Keightley, who has stepped down after just one season in charge after taking over from Charlotte Edwards.

Williams, 46, has substantial coaching experience, including in the WPL where he coached Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the title in 2024. He also led the Adelaide Strikers to two runners-up finishes and a maiden WBBL title in 2022-23 and was the Assistant Coach of the Southern Brave team in the Women's Hundred during their successful 2023 campaign. Williams has most recently served as the Assistant Coach of the England Women's team since 2025.

He will now be tasked with helping the two-time WPL champions rise once more following their forgettable 2026 season, in which the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side won just three games and finished fourth in the standings. "I’m really excited to be joining Mumbai Indians, a respected and successful organisation, and working with this talented group of players and support staff.

"We have a great opportunity to build something together, play an exciting brand of cricket and compete for success. I’m looking forward to the challenge and to giving our fans plenty to be proud of."

Speaking on the appointment, MI owner Nita Ambani said: "We are delighted to welcome Luke Williams to the Mumbai Indians family. Luke is a proven winner and brings with him rich experience, a deep understanding of the women’s game, and a strong commitment to developing players.

"Our girls have created a proud legacy in the WPL, and I am confident that, with Luke’s guidance and Harman’s leadership, they will continue to grow, achieve greater success, and inspire young girls everywhere to dream big. I wish Luke, and the entire team the very best as we begin this exciting new chapter together."

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