Luke Ronchi and Jacob Oram Set to Lead Islamabad United Coaches Panel for PSL 11

New Zealand’s coaching group will take on international franchise duties next month as Luke Ronchi and Jacob Oram prepare to join Islamabad United for the PSL 2026, a move that overlaps with the Black Caps’ busy white-ball schedule.

Ronchi, New Zealand’s batting coach and a former Islamabad United player, has been appointed head coach of the franchise for the upcoming season of the Pakistan Super League 2026. He will be joined by fellow New Zealand assistant Jacob Oram, who currently serves as the national side’s bowling coach.

The appointments mean both Islamabad United coaches will be absent from New Zealand’s camp during key international assignments, including a five-match T20I series against South Africa scheduled from March 15 to 25, followed by a limited-overs tour of Bangladesh.

Despite the scheduling conflict, New Zealand Cricket has backed the decision, viewing it as an opportunity for the coaching duo to gain exposure in one of the world’s leading T20 leagues.

“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,” said NZC performance manager Mike Sandle.

“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.”

Ronchi’s association with Islamabad United dates back to his playing days, when he represented the franchise across multiple seasons after joining the league in 2017. His familiarity with the team’s culture and structure played a role in his appointment as head coach for the new campaign.

In their absence, New Zealand Cricket has arranged temporary coaching reinforcements. Wellington head coach Jonny Bassett-Graham and NZC network coach Graeme Aldridge will assist national head coach Rob Walter during the T20I series against South Africa.

For the Bangladesh tour later in the season, Canterbury coach Brendon Donkers will step in to support the Black Caps’ management group.

Sandle believes the arrangement will strengthen the country’s coaching pipeline while also giving domestic coaches valuable international exposure.

“It will be great to have Jonny, Graeme and Brendon join the Black Caps, and I'm sure they will get a lot of out their time in the environment and the experience of working alongside our players and support staff,” he said.

With Ronchi and Oram set to guide Islamabad United in PSL 2026, their stint in Pakistan could add another chapter to the growing crossover between international cricket staff and global franchise leagues.