Defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have confirmed former Australia leg-spinner Kristen Beams as their new spin-bowling coach for the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season, strengthening an already world-class backroom setup. The 41-year-old, who represented Australia across all formats between 2014 and 2017, will work alongside head coach Lisa Keightley and bowling coach-mentor Jhulan Goswami, forming one of the most experienced support staffs in the WPL.
Beams brings a wealth of tactical and development expertise, having played one Test, 30 ODIs and 18 T20Is, in addition to coaching roles across the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), The Hundred and the Australia Under-19 women’s programme. Speaking about her appointment, Beams said she was excited to join a dressing room known for its unity and winning mentality, calling MI “a tight-knit family that knows how to win.”
This will also be Keightley’s first season in charge of Mumbai Indians, following three years with Delhi Capitals. The franchise has enjoyed remarkable success since the WPL’s launch, lifting two titles in three seasons, and will begin their 2026 campaign on January 9 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The upcoming edition marks the first time the WPL will be staged in the January–February window, with matches taking place in Navi Mumbai and Vadodara across 28 days.
Mumbai Indians retained the core of their championship squad at last month’s auction, and Beams’ arrival is expected to further sharpen the franchise’s spin attack as they chase another title. With elite experience, renewed leadership, and a settled roster, MI once again look like the team to beat in WPL 2026.
