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BJ Watling confirmed as New Zealand batting coach, replacing Luke Ronchi

New Zealand Cricket has announced that former Black Caps batsman **BJ Watling** will replace **Luke Ronchi** as the national team’s batting coach starting in December 2026. Watling, who retired after New Zealand’s 2021 World Test Championship triumph, brings a wealth of experience from his 108 international appearances, including 75 Tests and eight winning centuries.

His domestic coaching success—leading Northern Districts to the Plunket Shield in 2025 and Super Smash victory in 2026—strengthens his credentials for the national role. Watling will join the Black Caps’ support staff in mid-November 2026, working alongside Ronchi during a handover period before taking full charge ahead of a four-Test series in Australia.

Ronchi, who has held the batting coach position since 2020, will step down to become head coach of the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League, ending a six-year tenure with New Zealand after the ongoing Test series against India concludes. Test captain **Tom Latham** praised Watling’s appointment, highlighting his leadership and deep understanding of high-pressure cricket, particularly for a batting lineup where only one of the preferred Test top six is under 30.

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