Delhi: New Zealand cricket team has got its new batting coach in Test format. Former legendary wicketkeeper-batsman and Northern Districts head coach BJ Watling has been appointed as the new batting coach of the team. He will replace Luke Ronchi. Watling will officially take over the post after the Test series against India ends in early December.
Transition period will start from November 16
BJ Watling will join the New Zealand support staff on 16 November. He will complete the exchange of responsibilities by working with outgoing coach Luke Ronchi ahead of the 4-match Test series against Australia. After this, when the team goes on Australia tour, Watling will completely assume the role of batting coach.
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Watling was famous as 'Chhattan' at the crease.
In New Zealand cricket history, Watling is known for his fighting spirit and standing as a shield in difficult situations. Watling, who is known as a stubborn lower-middle-order batsman, has scored a record 3,400 Test runs for New Zealand as a wicketkeeper.
In his career, Watling played a total of 178 first-class matches for Blackcaps, Northern Districts and Durham. He has more than 10,000 runs, 18 centuries and 450 catches in his name.
Flag of success hoisted in coaching also
After retiring from international cricket in the year 2021, Watling entered coaching. He coached domestic teams like Wellington Firebirds and Northern Districts. Under his supervision, Northern Districts won the title of 'Plunket Shield' in 2024-25 and 'Super Smash' in 2025-26.
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'Very excited to return to the team'
Expressing his happiness on his return to the New Zealand team, BJ Watling said, “I am very excited about this responsibility. Coming back to the team and working with the current players is a special opportunity, which I take very seriously. This team and the support staff have done a fantastic job in recent years, so I am looking forward to contributing to this world-class team.”
FAQ
When will BJ Watling take over as the batting coach of the New Zealand cricket team?
BJ Watling will join the team's support staff on 16 November 2026 and will work with Luke Ronchi in the transition phase until the Test series against India ending in December.
What has been the record of BJ Watling in his coaching career?
After his retirement in 2021, Watling has coached the Wellington Firebirds and Northern Districts.