The Melbourne Renegades have appointed Luke Ronchi as the club's new BBL Head Coach, with the former Australian and New Zealand international to lead the club in BBL|16.
Melbourne Renegades appoint Luke Ronchi as Head Coach for BBL|16
The only player in cricketing history to have represented both Australia and New Zealand, Ronchi played over 100 international matches. He has since held various roles within the Black Caps setup, including a stint as Head Coach for a recent Test tour of Bangladesh and was Batting Coach in New Zealand’s recent Test series win in England.
Ronchi is also the current coach of Pakistan Super League team Islamabad United, bringing global experience and connections to the Renegades. He will join the club after New Zealand’s upcoming Test series against India.
Melbourne Renegades T20 High Performance Manager Clint McKay said Ronchi was the outstanding candidate to lead the club.
"Luke is one of the most highly regarded emerging coaches in world cricket and we're thrilled to welcome him to the Melbourne Renegades," McKay said.
"Luke stood out with his clear vision for how he wants our team to play and his ability to build strong relationships. He empowers players to back their skills and take ownership of their performances, which we see as a great trait for this group at the Renegades this season."
Ronchi said he was looking forward to challenge of elevating the Renegades back into title contention.
"I’m grateful for the opportunity to coach the Renegades this season and can’t wait to get started with what is a highly talented group,” Ronchi said.
“The players have been through a difficult period in recent times with a lot of change so my focus will be on creating an enjoyable environment where our players can perform at their best, play an exciting brand of cricket and challenge for the title this season."
Following the appointment of Ronchi, the Renegades thank Cameron White for his contribution as head coach, as he departs the club to pursue an opportunity with another team.
White returned to the Renegades in 2024, bringing with him a deep connection to the club dating back to his playing days, including his role in the club's historic BBL|08 championship win.
An announcement on the appointment of a WBBL coach will be made in the coming weeks.