New Zealand assistant coaches Luke Ronchi and Jacob Oram are set to join Islamabad United for the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL 11), even though the tournament overlaps with the Black Caps’ international schedule.
Luke Ronchi, New Zealand’s batting coach, was appointed head coach of Islamabad United in January. He previously played three seasons for the franchise after making his PSL debut in the 2017-18 season.
Oram, who serves as New Zealand’s bowling coach, will work alongside Ronchi as one of his assistants during the tournament.
New Zealand Cricket performance manager Mike Sandle supported the decision and highlighted the benefits of gaining coaching experience overseas.
“This is a great chance for Luke and Jake to further their coaching experience and grow their skills outside of the New Zealand cricket environment,” Sandle said.
“Just like our players, our coaches are in demand around the world, and we believe Luke and Jake will not only personally benefit from their time at the PSL, but they will also be able to bring back knowledge and IP that can aid the Black Caps and NZC in the future.”
New Zealand is scheduled to host South Africa for a five-match T20I series from March 15 to March 25, while the PSL begins on March 26.
Meanwhile, the 11th season of the Pakistan Super League will feature an expanded roster of eight teams, including two new franchises, Hyderabad Kingsmen and Pindiz.
The tournament will include 44 matches, running from March 26 to May 3.
Defending champions Lahore Qalandars will open the tournament against Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen at their home ground on March 26.
Each team will play 10 matches in the group stage, with the top four teams advancing to the playoffs.
The playoff format will include Qualifier 1, an Eliminator, and Qualifier 2, before the final takes place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on May 3, with a reserve day scheduled for May 4.
This year’s PSL will also feature six double-header match days, three of which will take place at Gaddafi Stadium.
For the first time in PSL history, matches will be played across six venues in Pakistan, with Faisalabad and Peshawar joining Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi as host cities.
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