According to an NZC release, he will join the national side on November 16 and complete a transition period with Ronchi before taking over the role when the side heads to Australia for a four-Test series starting December 9. Overall, he has played 178 first-class matches, finishing his career with over 10,034 runs including 18 centuries.

Since his retirement, Watling has coached New Zealand domestic teams Wellington Firebirds and Northern Districts, and was part of the latter’s 2025-26 Super Smash win and 2024-25 Plunket Shield title.

“I’m incredibly excited,” Watling said. “To come back into the team and work with this current group is a special opportunity and one I don’t take lightly. What this side and the support staff have achieved together over recent years has been remarkable, so I’m looking forward to contributing to a world-class side.”

Test captain Tom Latham said he expected Watling to fit into the role seamlessly. “BJ is a guy who personified what it means to be a BLACKCAP, so having someone like him come back into the group will be great for our environment,” Latham said. “There was never any doubt about his effort and determination every time he stepped onto the field, and I’m sure that same attitude will translate in his coaching style.”