AUCKLAND: Former New Zealand and Australia wicketkeeper-batsman Luke Ronchi is set to step down as the Blackcaps’ batting coach to take up the post of head coach at Big Bash League (PBL) franchise Melbourne Renegades.
According to New Zealand Cricket (NZC), Ronchi, who took over the role in 2020 following the departure of Peter Fulton, will conclude his tenure with the Blackcaps’ multi-format home bilateral series against India from October 22 to November 27, while a decision on his replacement will be taken in due course.
“Blackcaps batting coach Luke Ronchi will step down from his role with NZC to become head coach of Melbourne Renegades in the Australian Big Bash League,” NZC said in a statement.
“Ronji will continue to work with the BLACKCAPS team throughout the upcoming India tour of New Zealand and will join the Melbourne Renegades at the end of that series.
A decision on the replacement of Ronchi will be taken in due course.
Ronchi, who played four Tests, 85 ODIs and 33 T20Is for Australia and New Zealand in his glittering international career, is grateful for the opportunity to coach with the Blackcaps.
He promised to watch the New Zealand team “very closely” and wished them well for the future.
“Returning to the national team is a dream come true for me and I am very grateful to my fellow coaches and players for the opportunity to work with them all these years,” Ronchi was quoted as saying.
“My goal is to try and reflect back and see this team and the batsmen perform at the highest level, and there have been some pretty memorable moments that I’m proud to have been a part of.
“I’m watching very closely and wish everyone the best of luck with what’s to come.”