Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 24: Mumbai Indians have appointed Luke Williams as head coach of their women's team ahead of the 2027 Women's Premier League (WPL), replacing Lisa Keightley, who has taken up a role as Cricket Australia's national development lead.

Williams previously coached Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to their maiden WPL title in 2024. He was also associated with the franchise during the 2025 season before stepping away to focus on his role with the Adelaide Strikers in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL).

Expressing his excitement over the new assignment, Williams said he was looking forward to working with the team and competing for another title.

"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," he said in a statement issued by the franchise.

The appointment marks Mumbai Indians' second coaching change in two seasons. Keightley had taken over ahead of the 2026 edition after former coach Charlotte Edwards stepped down following her appointment as England women's head coach.

Williams' immediate task will be to prepare the team's retention list ahead of the September 28 deadline. The WPL 2027 mini-auction is scheduled to be held in Kochi on October 28.

The upcoming edition of the tournament is scheduled to take place from January 14 to February 7, 2027, with five teams competing for the title.