Islamabad:Former New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Luke Ronchi has been named the head coach of three-time PSL champions Islamabad United ahead of the landmark 11th season of the Pakistan Super League, set to begin on March 26.
The franchise confirmed the appointment through its official social media channels, announcing Ronchi’s return in a leadership role for PSL 11.
In a statement issued by Islamabad United, Ronchi shared his strong emotional attachment to the franchise, calling it a place he has always considered home.
He said the relationship he shares with the team’s management, players, supporters, and the wider ISLU family is deeply meaningful to him.
Expressing pride in his return, Ronchi described the role as a great honor and said he looks forward to continuing the team’s tradition of fearless cricket, strong character, and a winning mentality while helping nurture future leaders and match-winners.
Ronchi replaces Mike Hesson, who guided Islamabad United to their third PSL title in the eighth edition of the tournament after defeating Multan Sultans in the 2024 final.
Hesson currently serves as Pakistan’s white-ball head coach. Ronchi is no stranger to the league, having previously played for Islamabad United across three seasons from 2018 to 2020.
During his PSL playing career, the 44-year-old appeared in 31 matches, scoring 1,020 runs at an outstanding strike rate of 166.12, including 10 half-centuries.
The upcoming 11th edition of the PSL will be historic, featuring an expansion to eight teams, with Hyderabad and Sialkot joining as new franchises.
Additionally, the league will introduce a player auction system for the first time, replacing the traditional draft, with the auction scheduled for February 11.
