Kristen Beams: Defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have further strengthened their coaching setup for the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 by appointing former Australian leg-spinner Kristen Beams as their new spin bowling coach. The move underlines MI’s intent to maintain their dominance in women’s franchise cricket while continuing to invest in experienced international expertise.
Kristen Beams, now 41, brings with her a wealth of playing and coaching experience at the highest level of the game. A former Australian international, she represented her country across all three formats and was known for her tactical intelligence and consistency as a leg-spinner. Her inclusion in the MI support staff is expected to add depth, innovation, and strategic clarity to the team’s spin bowling department ahead of the new WPL season.
Kristen Beams’ International and Coaching Background
As a player, Kristen Beams featured in one Test match, 30 One-Day Internationals, and 18 T20 Internationals for Australia. During her international career, she built a reputation as a reliable spin option, capable of controlling the middle overs and applying pressure on opposition batters in high-stakes matches.
After retiring from professional cricket, Beams smoothly transitioned into coaching and broadcasting, steadily establishing herself as a respected voice in women’s cricket development. She has previously worked in coaching roles across several major competitions, including the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) in Australia and The Hundred in England. In addition, she has played a key role in nurturing young talent as part of Australia’s Under-19 women’s team setup, contributing to the growth of the next generation of elite cricketers.
Her appointment by Mumbai Indians reflects the franchise’s emphasis on proven international knowledge and long-term player development, particularly in specialized skill areas like spin bowling.
A Strong and Experienced MI Coaching Unit
With the arrival of Kristen Beams, Mumbai Indians’ coaching staff for WPL 2026 now boasts an impressive blend of global experience and local expertise. The team is currently led by head coach Lisa Keightley, who is set to begin her first season with MI after previously serving as head coach of the Delhi Capitals. Keightley’s tactical approach and calm leadership have already earned her widespread respect in women’s cricket circles.
Alongside her is legendary former Indian pacer Jhulan Goswami, who continues her dual role as bowling coach and mentor. Goswami’s influence has been widely credited for shaping MI’s strong bowling culture since the inception of the WPL. The coaching group is further strengthened by Devika Palshikar as batting coach and Nicole Bolton as fielding coach, ensuring that all key aspects of the game are covered in detail.
Kristen Beams’ inclusion completes a well-rounded support system that blends experience, innovation, and mentorship.
Beams: “Working with Jhulan Goswami Is a Privilege”
Reacting to her appointment, Kristen Beams expressed her excitement and pride at joining the Mumbai Indians setup. In a statement shared via MI’s official Instagram account, she described the opportunity as both special and meaningful.
“This is an incredible opportunity for me,” Beams said. “Working alongside someone like Jhulan Goswami, who is a true legend of the game, is incredibly special. I’ve played against her during my career, and now to be working with her is something I feel very proud of. Mumbai Indians have built a strong winning culture, and the environment here feels like a family.”
Her comments highlight not only her respect for Goswami but also her enthusiasm for contributing to MI’s already successful team culture.
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Mumbai Indians’ Dominance in the WPL
Mumbai Indians have been one of the most successful franchises in the short history of the Women’s Premier League. Of the three WPL seasons played so far, MI have lifted the trophy twice, firmly establishing themselves as a powerhouse in women’s franchise cricket.
The WPL 2026 season is scheduled to begin on January 9, marking the first time the tournament will be held in the January–February window. MI will open their campaign against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the champions of the 2024 season. The 28-day tournament will be hosted across Navi Mumbai and Vadodara, offering fans in multiple regions the chance to witness top-level women’s cricket.
Read also: Smriti Mandhana Reaches 10,000 International Runs, Etches Her Name Deeper in Women’s Cricket History
Focus on Continuity and Strengthening the Squad
During last month’s player auction, Mumbai Indians retained the core of their championship-winning squad while also bringing back a few familiar faces. This approach reflects the franchise’s belief in continuity, stability, and gradual improvement rather than wholesale changes.
The addition of Kristen Beams is seen as a strategic step in enhancing MI’s spin bowling resources, an area that often proves decisive in T20 cricket, particularly on subcontinental pitches. Her technical knowledge, analytical skills, and international exposure are expected to benefit both established players and emerging talents within the squad.
As WPL 2026 approaches, Mumbai Indians appear well-prepared both on and off the field. With Kristen Beams joining an already elite coaching lineup, the defending champions will be aiming not just to defend their title, but to further cement their legacy as one of the most successful teams in women’s cricket history.
