Luke Ronchi, Jacob Oram cleared for PSL duties despite clash with New Zealand assignments

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have granted permission to assistant coaches Luke Ronchi and Jacob Oram to leave the national camp and join the backroom staff of Islamabad United ahead of the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL) season. 

This comes just days before the start of New Zealand’s five-match T20I series against South Africa starting from March 15 at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. 

The PSL season, meanwhile, commences from March 26 and will go up until late April, meaning both Ronchi and Oram would miss not only the series against the Proteas but also their tour to Bangladesh next month.

“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,” Performance Manager Nike Sandle was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

“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 BLACKCAPS and NZC in the future,” he added.

Ronchi has had history with Islamabad United before, having represented the franchise for three seasons. The former Kiwi batter scored 1020 runs for the team in 31 matches.

Meanwhile, Ronchi is set to return to the side as their new head coach, with Oram being one of his assistants. In their absence, Wellington Blaze coach Jonny Bassett-Graham and NZC network coach Graeme Aldridge would assist head coach Rob Walter in the series against South Africa, while Canterbury’s Brendon Donkers would take over for the tour to Bangladesh.

Islamabad United, meanwhile, commence their 2026 PSL campaign against Multan Sultans on March 28 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The side from the capital city finished second in the standings last time around, only to lose to eventual champions Lahore Qalandars in the play-off game.