New Zealand Cricket has named former wicketkeeper-batter BJ Watling as the new batting coach for the men’s national team. Watling is set to join the support staff on November 16, beginning a transition period alongside the incumbent coach, Luke Ronchi. He will assume full responsibility for the position as the team prepares for their upcoming four-Test series against Australia, following the conclusion of the Test series against India in early December.
Bringing extensive experience to the role, Watling concludes his time as head coach of Northern Districts Men. His coaching tenure was marked by significant success, securing the Plunket Shield in 2024-25 and the Super Smash title in 2025-26. Since his retirement from international cricket in 2021, he has also held coaching positions with the Wellington Firebirds. As a player, he appeared in 178 first-class matches across New Zealand, Northern Districts, and Durham, amassing over 10,000 runs including 18 centuries, while recording 450 dismissals as a wicketkeeper.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the return to the international setup, Watling stated that he is eager to contribute to a world-class group. He remarked that joining the current squad is a special opportunity he does not take lightly, acknowledging the remarkable achievements of the players and staff in recent years. New Zealand Cricket’s Chief High Performance Officer, Daryl Gibson, expressed confidence in the appointment, citing Watling’s proven coaching record and his existing rapport with the squad members.
Gibson further highlighted Watling’s stature, calling him one of the most respected modern players whose work ethic aligns perfectly with the team’s identity. Test captain Tom Latham echoed these sentiments, noting that Watling’s well-known determination and effort on the field will be a valuable asset to the coaching environment. The team management anticipates that his presence will be particularly beneficial during a high-stakes stretch of international cricket over the coming months. According to he’s comfortably one of the most respected modern BLACKCAPS and his approach to his playing career is synonymous with the identity of the side,”, Gibson. “We’re very excited for him to start with what will be a mass. So having someone like him come back into the group will be great for our environment, test captain Tom Latham added: “BJ is a guy who personified what it means to be a BLACKCAP.
