Luke Ronchi, the batting coach for New Zealand, has announced he will step down from his position at the conclusion of the upcoming home series against India. His departure comes as he prepares to transition into a new role as the head coach of the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League. Ronchi has served as the national team's full-time batting coach since 2020, taking over the responsibilities from Peter Fulton.
During his six-year tenure, Ronchi played a key role in a highly successful era for the New Zealand side. His coaching contributions included the team's historic 2021 ICC World Test Championship victory and appearances in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup finals in 2021 and 2026. He also helped guide the team to the summit clash of the 2025 Champions Trophy, along with significant series successes, including a 3-0 Test series win and ODI series victories in India in 2024 and 2026, as well as a recent Test series triumph in England.
Reflecting on his time with the squad, Ronchi described the experience as a career highlight. He expressed immense gratitude to the players and his fellow coaches for the opportunity to contribute to the team's performance at the highest level, noting that he is proud of the memorable moments he shared with the group. He intends to remain with the national side until the conclusion of the India series before heading to Australia.
New Zealand Test captain Tom Latham praised Ronchi for his significant influence on the team's culture and the development of the batting group. Latham noted that Ronchi was a valued member of the setup both as a player and a coach, adding that his guidance helped many players improve their game. While acknowledging the disappointment of losing such a dedicated figure, Latham extended his best wishes for Ronchi's future endeavors.
New Zealand Cricket has indicated that an announcement regarding Ronchi's successor will be made in due course. In related coaching developments, Cameron White has secured a three-year contract as the head coach of the Melbourne Stars, replacing Peter Moores. Moores will continue his association with the Stars for another year in the capacity of director of coaching.
"He's such a valued member of this group, certainly when he was playing but also after he transitioned into the coaching space too, so it's disappointing to be losing a guy like Ronchs.
"Coming back to the national set up has been a dream come true for me and I'm immensely grateful to my fellow coaches and the players for the opportunity to work alongside them for all these years.
