Luke Williams has been named head coach of the Mumbai Indians for the 2027 Women’s Premier League season. On Thursday, September 24, the announcement was officially made. Luke Williams will take over for Lisa Keightley, who left the franchise.
Keightley had been with the Mumbai Indians for just over a year after being named head coach in September 2025. The brand has not given an official explanation for her departure.
“I’m thrilled to be working with this brilliant group of players and support staff at the Mumbai Indians, a reputable and prosperous organization. We have a fantastic chance to work together to create something, play a thrilling game of cricket, and battle for victory. After being welcomed into the team, Williams remarked, “I’m looking forward to the challenge and giving our fans plenty to be proud of.”
Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, the Mumbai Indians have won the WPL twice, in 2023 and 2025. Under former head coach Charlotte Edwards, both victories were attained. Kaur remains the team’s captain going into the 2027 season, providing the team with a stable leadership core as they start getting ready under their new coach.
As part of the formal announcement, the franchise’s owner, Nita M. Ambani, welcomed Williams to the Mumbai Indians family.
“We are thrilled to have Luke Williams join the Mumbai Indians.” Luke is a proven winner who has a wealth of experience, a thorough comprehension of the women’s game, and a strong dedication to player development.With Luke’s direction and Harman’s leadership, our girls have left a proud legacy in the WPL, and I have no doubt that they will continue to develop, succeed more, and encourage young girls worldwide to have big dreams. “As we start this thrilling new chapter together, I wish Luke and the entire team the very best,” Ambani said on Thursday.
How can Luke Williams help the Mumbai Indians?
Luke Williams has an outstanding track record of winning women’s franchise titles in a variety of events and nations when she joins the Mumbai Indians. In 2022 and 2023, he led the Adelaide Strikers to consecutive titles in the Women’s Big Bash League. After that, he joined the Women’s Premier League and led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the 2024 WPL championship.
Luke Williams served as an assistant coach in The Hundred’s championship-winning squad in 2023. He is among the most renowned coaches in the women’s game, having won three straight women’s franchise titles in various competitions when combined.
Luke Williams has been an assistant coach with the England Women’s team since 2025, expanding his franchise experience abroad. His signing with the Mumbai Indians signifies his comeback to the top level of women’s franchise cricket.
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Outside of coaching, Williams has won the Bradman Medal for grade cricket three times, in the 2005–06, 2007–08, and 2009–10 seasons. The Bradman Medal, which highlights the playing basis of his coaching career, is given to Australia’s top grade cricketer.
The Mumbai-based team has their core leadership structure in place for the 2027 WPL League season, with Williams confirmed as head coach and Harmanpreet Kaur remaining as captain. On October 28, the WPL 2027 auction will take place in Kochi.
