BJ Watling to replace Luke Ronchi as New Zealand batting coach

Former New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter BJ Watling will replace Luke Ronchi as the Black Caps batting coach after New Zealand's Test series against India concludes in early December. Watling will join the support staff on November 16 and work alongside Ronchi during a transition period before taking over fully.

Watling scored 3,790 Test runs in 75 matches, including eight centuries, and holds the national record for most dismissals by a wicketkeeper with 265. He retired from international cricket in 2021 after helping New Zealand win the inaugural World Test Championship.

New Zealand Test captain Tom Latham said Watling personified what it means to be a Black Cap and that his attitude as a player would translate into his coaching style. Watling said he was excited to return to the setup and contribute to a world-class side.