Kristen Beams named Mumbai Indians’ spin bowling coach ahead of WPL 2026

The Mumbai Indians (MI) have appointed former Australia legspinner Kristen Beams as their spin-bowling coach for the fourth season of the WPL 2026. Beams played for Australia from 2014 to 2017 across formats. She will bring in her experience to the league and help the defending champions retain their title.  

The spin bowling coach played one Test, 30 ODIs and 18 T20Is in her career. Due to inconsistent performance, she failed to cement her place in the team. However, she played for the Melbourne Stars in the WBBL from 2015-16 to 2019-20 and then turned into a full time coach. She started in the WBBL, the Hundred and the Australia Under-19 women's team. Now, she will be a part of the Women's Premier League (WPL). 

"It's an incredible opportunity to work with someone like a Jhulan Goswami, one of the greats of the game, somebody I played cricket against," Beams said in MI's Instagram post. 

"[It's an] incredible culture...that they've developed a winning culture over a really long period of time, but a family that's what you hear everyone talk about that this group is so tight-knit, and it's a family and it's what you want to be a part of. And I think as a coach coming in, that's exactly what you want to be able to do, is to walk into an environment that feels really tight-knit, and a team that knows how to win," she added.

Which franchise looks strong in WPL 2026?

As the Women’s Premier League 2026 approaches, Mumbai Indians (MI) clearly emerge as the strongest franchise on paper, thanks to a combination of squad balance, experience, and a settled support system. 

MI’s biggest strength lies in their all-round depth. Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership, Nat Sciver-Brunt’s consistency across departments, and Hayley Matthews’ impact at the top provide match-winning options in every phase of the game. 

Their bowling unit is equally strong, with pace spearheaded by Shabnim Ismail and tactical control offered by spin options like Saika Ishaque. 

While teams like Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru possess explosive match-winners, Mumbai Indians’ superior squad balance, leadership depth and coaching structure make them the most well-rounded and strongest franchise heading into WPL 2026. There are high chances that they might retain their title this season. 

Where to watch WPL 2026 match?

Cricket fans in India can watch the WPL 2026 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

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