His appointment comes just two weeks before the PSL auction, where Hyderabad, along with fellow new franchise Sialkot, will be tasked with building their squad from scratch. The role marks Gillespie’s first coaching involvement in Pakistan since his bitter falling out with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which led to his dismissal as Pakistan’s red-ball coach just days before the start of a two-Test series against South Africa.
“I am very excited to be part of the Kingsmen team in Hyderabad. There is a lot 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 Hyderabad franchise ownership group, 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 2018 Pakistan Super League title-winning campaign.
One of the most explosive batters in PSL history, Ronchi has the highest strike rate among players with at least 1,000 runs in the tournament, with an exceptional score of 166.12. Since retiring from professional cricket, he has remained heavily involved in the coaching set-up in New Zealand, 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 very special. I have always carried that connection with pride. Returning now as head coach is a tremendous honor. Islamabad United stands for fearless cricket, character and a winning mentality. I am excited to continue that legacy and help develop the next group of leaders and match winners for this great team,” Ronchi said in a statement.
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