Mark Boucher named Mumbai Indians head coach

MUMBAI: Former South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Mark Boucher has been appointed the Mumbai Indians head coach for the upcoming Indian Premier League season, the franchise announced on Friday.

The 45-year-old Boucher will replace Mahela Jayawardene, who has been elevated to the role of global head of performance by the franchise.

Boucher, currently the head coach of the South Africa men’s national team, earlier this week announced that he would step down from the role after the T20 World Cup in Australia.

“It is an honour and privilege to be appointed as Head Coach of MI. Its history and achievements as a franchise clearly put it up there as one of the most successful sporting franchises in all of world sport,” Boucher said in a media release. “I look forward to the challenge and respect the need for results. It is a strong unit with great leadership and players. I look forward to adding value to this dynamic unit,” added Boucher.