The Mumbai Indians have officially announced a significant leadership change for their dominant Women’s Premier League (WPL) team. They’ve brought on board Lisa Keightley, a revered former Australian cricketer and a dual World Cup champion, to helm the squad as its new head coach.
Keightley’s decorated career speaks volumes. Not only was she an integral part of Australia’s World Cup triumphs in both 1997 and 2005, but her coaching prowess is also widely recognized. She brings a wealth of experience, having coached extensively across Australia, England, and in various prominent global leagues.
Under new leadership, the Mumbai Indians women’s team aims to continue its legacy. Having already clinched championships in the 2023 and 2025 Women’s Premier League seasons, they stand as the league’s most successful franchise.
Nita Ambani, owner of the Mumbai Indians, shared her enthusiasm about the appointment: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Lisa Keightley to the Mumbai Indians family. Lisa is a true trailblazer in women’s cricket, whose passion, expertise, and pioneering spirit have inspired countless generations. Her arrival marks an incredibly exciting new chapter for the Mumbai Indians as we strive to reach even greater heights and further build upon our esteemed legacy of excellence.”
Keightley herself expressed her honor: “It’s a genuine privilege to join the Mumbai Indians, a team that has truly set the gold standard in the WPL. I deeply admire the culture of excellence and care that permeates this organization. I am eager to collaborate with this exceptionally talented group, to build on our past successes, and to continue inspiring both on and off the field.”
Notably, Keightley holds the distinction of being the first woman to serve as a full-time head coach for England, having guided both Australian and English women’s national teams. Her impressive coaching resume includes successful stints in the Women’s Big Bash League, The Hundred, and, of course, the WPL. Most recently, she led the Northern Superchargers to a memorable victory in The Hundred women’s competition.
During her impactful playing days as an opening batter, Keightley proudly represented Australia in nine Test matches, 82 One Day Internationals, and one T20 International, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.