KEY POINTS
- Ronchi expressed deep emotional ties to Islamabad United.
- He takes over from Mike Hesson, who coached the team to its third PSL title in 2024 season.
- Appointment comes ahead of PSL season featuring an eight-team expansion.
ISLAMABAD: Three-time Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions Islamabad United have appointed former New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Luke Ronchi as their new head coach for the upcoming 11th season, which begins on March 26.
The franchise announced on its official social media channels with a simple yet evocative caption: “Ronchi is back home, this time leading the transformation as Head Coach for PSL 11.”
The move brings back a familiar and popular figure to the United dugout, but in a new, pivotal leadership role as the team prepares for a landmark season.
‘A place that feels like home’
Ronchi expressed his profound connection to the franchise. “Islamabad United has always felt like home to me,” he said.
“The bond I share with this team, the owners, the fans, and the entire ISLU family is something genuinely special. I’ve always carried that connection with pride.”
🚨 @ronchi04 is back home, this time leading the transformation as Head Coach for HBL PSL 11.
Once a Sheru, Always a Sheru 🦁
Welcome back, Coach 🙌
Read more: https://t.co/dOCte2wDZT#UnitedWeWin #RedHotSquad #HBLPSL11 pic.twitter.com/gLxMBAroiw
— Islamabad United (@IsbUnited) January 27, 2026
He framed his new role as a significant honour, vowing to uphold the team’s core ethos.
“To return now as Head Coach is a huge honour. Islamabad United stands for fearless cricket, character, and a winning mindset. I’m excited to carry that legacy forward and help develop the next group of leaders and match-winners for this great team,” Ronchi added.
Following in championship footsteps
Ronchi takes over from Mike Hesson, who served as head coach during United’s successful 2024 campaign, guiding the team to a record-breaking third PSL title with a victory over the Multan Sultans.
Hesson, who is also the current white-ball head coach of the Pakistan national team, set a high benchmark for success that Ronchi will now aim to emulate and build upon.
Proven pedigree as a united star
The 44-year-old Ronchi is no stranger to the franchise or the PSL, having been a key player for Islamabad United from 2018 to 2020.
During his three-season stint, he established himself as one of the league’s most explosive batters.
In 31 PSL matches, he amassed 1,020 runs at a stunning strike rate of 166.12, registering 10 half-centuries.
His intimate understanding of the team’s culture and his proven performance under pressure are seen as major assets in his new position.
Historic season ahead
Ronchi’s appointment comes ahead of the most transformative season in PSL history. The 11th edition will expand to eight teams with the addition of new franchises from Hyderabad and Sialkot.
Furthermore, the league will transition from a traditional draft to its inaugural player auction, scheduled for February 11, adding a new strategic dimension to team building.
Ronchi’s first major task will be to help shape the squad at this landmark auction as Islamabad United begins its title defence under new leadership.
