In a significant turn of events for New Zealand cricket, batting coach Luke Ronchi is preparing to step down from his position with the Black Caps after the team’s home series against India wraps up later this year. The highly anticipated multi-format series between India and New Zealand is set for late 2026, which will mark Ronchi’s final assignment with the national team. The former Australia and New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter has accepted the head coach position with the Big Bash League team, the Melbourne Renegades, bringing an end to his six-year tenure that began when he took over from Peter Fulton in 2020.
Ronchi leaves an impressive legacy with New Zealand cricket. Under his guidance, the Black Caps clinched the ICC World Test Championship in 2021, reached the finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in both 2021 and 2026, and finished as runners-up in the 2025 Champions Trophy. The team also made history with a remarkable 3-0 Test series sweep in India, secured ODI series victories in India in 2024 and 2026, and recently triumphed in a Test series against England.
Luke Ronchi Ready For New Challenge After Emotional Farewell
Looking back on his departure, Ronchi shared that, “It has always been my goal to try and help this team and the batters perform at the highest level, and reflecting back, there have been some pretty memorable moments that I’m proud to have been part of.”
At 45, he mentioned that he would fondly remember several unforgettable moments and plans to keep a close eye on the team’s progress in the future. In the meantime, New Zealand Cricket is gearing up to announce his successor in the next few months, with a decision expected before the series against India kicks off. Ronchi’s transition comes at a time of significant coaching changes in Melbourne, where former Renegades coach Cameron White has moved to the Melbourne Stars, and Peter Moores has taken on a director of coaching position.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the Big Bash League due to unsuccessful attempts to attract private investment and stalled plans for selling the Renegades franchise, the club has acted swiftly to secure Ronchi’s expertise. With a wealth of experience, he played in the inaugural BBL season for the Perth Scorchers and has represented both Australia and New Zealand on the international stage. Additionally, he led Islamabad United to the PSL Eliminator in 2026 during his first major coaching role in a franchise.
