The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly reached out to Luke Ronchi, former New Zealand wicket-keeper batsman, to take on the role of head coach for the national cricket team, according to sources. Ronchi, who currently serves as an assistant coach for New Zealand, is said to be considering the offer before making a decision.
This isn’t the first time Ronchi has been approached by the PCB. Previously, he had declined an offer from the board, which led to Grant Bradburn’s appointment to the position. Bradburn, along with Mickey Arthur and Andrew Puttick, had been reassigned to the National Cricket Academy in Lahore in November 2023, leaving vacancies in coaching positions.
The PCB has been working on finalizing a coaching panel ahead of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on April 18. This series marks an important event for Pakistan cricket, prompting the need for a solid coaching setup.
Ronchi’s cricketing background includes playing for both Australia and New Zealand in various formats. He has also had stints with several league cricket teams such as Guyana Amazon Warriors, Islamabad United, Mumbai Indians, and Perth Scorchers.
The decision to approach Ronchi comes after unsuccessful attempts to secure coaching commitments from Shane Watson, Mike Hesson, and Darren Sammy. Watson cited prior coaching and commentary obligations, while Sammy referenced his existing contract with the West Indies board as the head coach of their white-ball teams.
The PCB remains focused on assembling a competent coaching staff to guide the national team through upcoming challenges and tournaments.
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