PSL 2026: Jason Gillespie appointed Hyderabad head coach, Luke Ronchi takes charge at Islamabad United

Former Pakistan Test head coach Jason Gillespie has been appointed as the coach of Hyderabad, one of the two new franchises in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Gillespie’s previous coaching assignment was a brief but eventful six-month stint with Pakistan’s red-ball side in 2024.

His appointment comes just two weeks ahead of the PSL auction, where Hyderabad, along with fellow new franchise Sialkot, will be tasked with building their squad from scratch. This role marks Gillespie’s first coaching involvement in Pakistan since his acrimonious fallout with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which led to his resignation as Pakistan’s red-ball coach just days before the start of a two-Test series against South Africa.

“I’m very excited to be part of the Kingsmen team at Hyderabad. Lots to look forward to and I can’t wait to get started!,” said Gillespie as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“Vision clear. Direction locked. Entering a new era. Jason Gillespie takes charge as head coach of Hyderabad in the HBL PSL. Welcome to the family, coach,” Kingsman Cricket, part of the ownership group of the Hyderabad franchise posted on X.

Meanwhile, former New Zealand cricketer Luke Ronchi has been appointed as the head coach of Islamabad United. Ronchi previously represented United between 2018 and 2020 and played a key role in their title-winning campaign in the 2018 Pakistan Super League.

One of the most explosive batters in PSL history, Ronchi boasts the highest strike rate among players with at least 1,000 runs in the tournament, striking at an exceptional 166.12. Since retiring from professional cricket, he has remained closely involved with New Zealand’s coaching setup, gaining valuable experience.

“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. 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,” said Ronchi in a statement.