Mumbai Indians have officially secured the services of former Rajasthan Royals high-performance coach Steffan Jones to serve as a bowling consultant for their development program. The 52-year-old Welshman will collaborate closely with Zubin Bharucha, who was appointed as MI’s director of performance earlier this year. This strategic addition signals the five-time champions’ commitment to strengthening their domestic pipeline and refining the technical aspects of their fast-bowling unit ahead of future IPL seasons.
MI bolsters development squad with ex-RR coach to fast-track Indian pace talent
Jones brings extensive experience to the Wankhede, having previously served as RR’s fast-bowling coach during the 2019 IPL and returning as their high-performance fast-bowling coach ahead of IPL 2022. His recent work with India all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy highlights his effectiveness in accelerating player progression; under Jones’ guidance, Reddy has consistently increased his bowling speed from the mid-120s to the mid-130s. The new MI duo is tasked with a specific mandate: to work directly with Indian players during the ongoing domestic season, ensuring that emerging talent is polished and match-ready for the franchise’s long-term needs.
This appointment follows MI’s earlier announcement appointing Kieron Pollard as head coach, replacing Mahela Jayawardene. With Pollard leading the senior squad, Jones and Bharucha will focus on the grassroots and domestic levels, creating a cohesive structure from development to the top team. As the franchise prepares for the upcoming season, attention now turns to the captaincy decision and potential movements regarding the Hardik Pandya trade, which are expected to be finalized in the coming days.
Source: Yahoo Sports
