Islamabad name Mike Hesson’s replacement as head coach ahead of PSL 11

Islamabad United have announced their new head coach for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season. Former New Zealand cricketer Luke Ronchi, who represented Islamabad in three PSL seasons, including their title-winning campaign in 2018 where he was named Player of the Tournament, will return as head coach.

Ronchi in place of Hesson

Ronchi replaces Mike Hesson, who coached Islamabad for two seasons in 2024 and 2025 before being appointed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in the same capacity for the national side. Hesson parted ways with Islamabad at the end of the previous season, after which the post had been empty until now.

The franchise made the announcement through its social media account on Monday.

"Ronchi is back home, this time leading the transformation as Head Coach for PSL 11,” the caption read.

Reacting to his appointment as head coach of PSL’s joint-most decorated franchise, Ronchi called returning to Islamabad a huge honour.

"Islamabad United has always felt like home to me. The bond I share with this team, the owners, the fans, and the entire ISLU family is something genuinely special. I've always carried that connection with pride," Ronchi said.

"To return now as Head Coach is a huge honour. Islamabad United stands for fearless cricket, character, and a winning mindset. I'm excited to carry that legacy forward and help develop the next group of leaders and match-winners for this great team," he added.

PSL player auction

The PSL is due to begin on March 26, although the franchises have plenty to work on before that, most significant of which would be the player auction. Set to take place on February 11, this will be the league’s first player auction and Islamabad would be glad they have all their think tanks sorted before it.

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