ISLAMABAD: Former New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman Luke Ronchi has been appointed as the head coach of three-time champions Islamabad United ahead of the historic 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) starting on March 26.
The announcement was made on the franchise’s social media handle: “Ronchi returns home, this time leading the transition as head coach for PSL 11.”
In a statement released by the franchise, United’s newly appointed head coach expressed his deep emotional connection to the team, describing the franchise as a place where he will always belong.
“Islamabad United has always felt like home to me. The bond I share with this team, the owners, the fans and the entire ISLU family is something truly special. I will always carry that connection with pride,” Ronchi said.
“It is a great honor to return as head coach now. Islamabad United stands for fearless cricket, character and winning mentality. I am excited to carry that tradition forward and help this great team develop the next leaders and match-winners,” he added.
Notably, Mike Hesson, the current white-ball head coach of Pakistan, was appointed as the head coach of the United franchise in the eighth edition of the tournament and under him, the team won their third title in 2024, defeating Multan Sultans.
Meanwhile, Ronchi is not a new face in the PSL, having represented Islamabad United for three seasons from 2018 to 2020.
The 44-year-old scored 1,020 runs in 31 PSL matches at a strike rate of 166.12, including 10 fifties.
For the uninitiated, the historic 11th edition of the PSL will see the league expand to eight teams, with Hyderabad and Sialkot joining as new franchises.
For the first time, a league player auction will be held instead of the traditional player draft scheduled for February 11.
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