Kieron Pollard remains with Mumbai Indians in a brand new avatar.
Kieron Pollard is considered Mumbai’s savior over the previous decade, and he has always delivered when it was needed. Especially with noteworthy performances against their arch-rivals, the Chennai Super Kings. Pollard confirmed his retirement from IPL cricket after being left off Mumbai’s latest retention list.
“if not Mumbai Indians, I cannot see myself elsewhere. Once an MI, always an MI”. He said
Polly’s new avatar
He will remain with the squad as batting coach and will continue to work again for MI Emirates, the brand’s subsidiary in the UAE league, according to the franchise (ILT20). Pollard captained the Michigan squad in nine games over three seasons. He was retained by the team for INR 6 crore last season, despite his meager batting returns of 144 runs in 11 games.
“It hasn’t been the easiest decision to make as I will keep playing for a few more years, but I understand that this incredible franchise which has achieved so much needs to transition and if I’m no longer to play for MI then I cannot see myself playing against MI either,” Pollard said in a statement on Tuesday morning, just hours before the IPL 2023 retention deadline was to end. “Once an MI always an MI.”
Kieron Pollard Stats in IPL
Pollard is not a legend just for his longevity in the tournament. But he has some great stats to back it up.
| Matches | Runs | Fifties | Highest | Strike rates | Wickets | BBM |
| 189 | 3412 | 16 | 87 | 147.32 | 69 | 4/44 |
Mumbai Indians Owner’s reaction on Pollard’s retirement
“We’ll miss seeing his magic on the field for MI, but I’m thrilled that he’ll continue to play for MI Emirates and mentor future players as MI’s hitting coach. May his new adventure with MI and MI Emirates bring him even more honor, triumph, and fulfillment. I wish him the best of luck!, “Nita Ambani stated
“Polly leaves behind a significant legacy as a player with the Mumbai Indians,” Akash Ambani added. Every time he took the field, the crowd erupted. He was a beloved member of the MI family and a fantastic friend who played the beautiful game of cricket with zeal and dedication during his IPL career with us. Polly will continue to be a member of the MI Family as a batting coach for the Mumbai Indians and as a player for the MI Emirates.
What does he bring?
He contributes more than anyone else. He has made key contributions to Mumbai’s FIVE IPL championships, as well as their two Champions League victories.
Pollard has always been Mumbai’s crisis master, and he could use his experience to provide crucial counsel and assistance to the developing youths. With almost 13 years of experience, the Mumbai Indians will rely on KP’s expertise.
