The Mumbai Indians, aiming for a third consecutive Women’s Premier League (WPL) title, have announced the appointment of Kristen Beams, a former Australian leg-spinner, as their spin bowling coach for WPL 2026. This strategic recruitment aims to bolster the team’s spin department.
Beams conveyed her enthusiasm for joining the Mumbai Indians, emphasizing the team’s strong culture and winning pedigree. “It’s what you want to be a part of, that this group is so tight knit, and it’s a family,” she stated in a video released by the franchise. She also expressed excitement about the prospect of working alongside bowling mentor Jhulan Goswami.
With a successful international career for Australia, where she was a leading wicket-taker in the 2017 ODI World Cup, Beams possesses extensive knowledge of the game. Her experience spans various formats, including Tests, ODIs, T20Is, and the WBBL, providing her with a well-rounded perspective for her coaching role.
Beams has a proven coaching track record, having led the Hobart Hurricanes to a WBBL title and coached in other T20 leagues like The Hundred. Her previous roles also include heading the Australia women’s U19 team and contributing to Cricket Australia’s development programs. She joins a highly experienced MI coaching panel.
The WPL 2026 season is scheduled to commence on January 9 and will conclude on February 5, with matches to be played in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara. The Mumbai Indians, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, are set to begin their title defense against Smriti Mandhana’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.