Ahead of the IPL 2024 auction, Mumbai Indians (MI) has announced that their bowling coach, Shane Bond is leaving the franchise after 9 years. Bond, who is considered to be one of the best bowlers of his generation, led MI to 4 IPL trophies under his tenure as bowling coach. Apart from IPL, Bond also led MI Emirates to glory in the inaugural edition of ILT20 (International League T20) as their head coach earlier this year.
Before parting ways with the Mumbai Indians franchise, Bond while thanking MI owners and their fans, said:
“I would like to thank the Ambani family for the opportunity to be part of MI One Family for the last nine seasons. It has been an incredible experience with so many great memories on and off the field. I have been lucky enough to work with and have strong relationships with so many great people, both players and staff. I will miss them all and wish them all the best for the future. Finally thanks to the MI Paltan for their support as well.”
MI released a statement to announce the news of this departure, writing, “The team management, players, and staff would like to thank Shane Bond for his strong work ethic and being a friend to all those who have been a part of the One Family. Bond took charge as the team’s bowling coach in 2015 and was involved in MI’s title triumphs in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020 to become one of the most decorated and celebrated coaches in franchise history.”
“His stint as the head coach for MI Emirates, in the inaugural edition of ILT20, where his role was to blend the experience of the international players with the local domestic players.” the statement further read.