Former South Africa wicketkeeper batter Mark Boucher has been appointed Mumbai Indians' head coach for the upcoming IPL season, the franchise announced on Friday.

The 45-year-old replaces former Sri Lanka skipper Mahela Jayawardene, who has been elevated to the role of global head of performance by the franchise. Boucher, who is currently the head coach of the South Africa men's national team, had earlier this week announced he will be stepping down from the role after the upcoming T20 World Cup.

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"It is an honor and privilege to be appointed as Head Coach of MI. Their history and achievements as a franchise clearly put them up there as one of the most successful sporting franchises in all of world sport," Boucher said in a media release. "I look forward to the challenge and respect the need for results. It's a strong unit with great leadership and players. I look forward to adding value to this dynamic unit," he added.