Former Australia all-rounder Cameron White has been promoted to head coach of San Francisco Unicorns, taking over from Shane Watson as the franchise looks to break through for its first Major League Cricket (MLC) title in 2026.

White, who served as Watson’s deputy across the Unicorns’ first three MLC seasons, will now assume a year-round, hands-on role with the franchise following back-to-back playoff exits in 2024 and 2025. His expanded brief will include player development, recruitment, and data-led scouting, as the Unicorns attempt to convert potential into silverware.

“Working with the Unicorns last season, I’ve seen first-hand the potential for this franchise to not only grow within MLC, but become a globally recognised brand. As head coach, this will be very much an evolution, rather than a revolution. What will change is my year-round input into team development and scouting, and I hope that a more holistic, data-led approach can put us in a strong position to bring success to the Unicorns in the coming years,” White said.

Despite the increased responsibility in the Americas, White will continue to juggle the role alongside his commitments as head coach of the Melbourne Renegades, who endured a difficult BBL campaign and finished second from bottom this season.

It is worth noting that White’s elevation follows a growing Australian coaching footprint in MLC, with Adam Voges, fresh off a title-winning stint with the Perth Scorchers, recently appointed head coach of Seattle Orcas.

A protege of veteran coach Greg Shipperd, White began his coaching journey through assistant roles with the Adelaide Strikers and Sydney Sixers. During his playing career, he featured in four Tests for Australia, captained the national side in white-ball cricket, enjoyed prolonged domestic success with Victoria, and lifted a BBL title with the Renegades.

Unicorns co-owner Anand Rajaraman backed the decision, highlighting the franchise’s belief in White’s long-term vision.

“We’ve been hugely impressed by Cam’s knowledge base, attitude, and buy-in. This integrated appointment will allow him to execute his cricketing philosophies more comprehensively. And working alongside an already established back-office and performance setup, our first championship title is one step closer." Rajaraman said.

On the player front, the Unicorns have bolstered their squad by signing Australian seam-bowling all-rounder Aaron Hardie, who returns to MLC after a stint with the Texas Super Kings in 2024.

Hardie enjoyed a standout BBL season with the Scorchers, earning a place in the Team of the Tournament and playing a decisive role in the final by dismissing Steven Smith in front of a 55,000-strong home crowd. The 25-year-old will reunite with New Zealand opener Finn Allen, who has been part of the Unicorns setup since the league’s inception in 2023.

“He was kind enough to get me across. I love playing with Finn he’s great to have around. I really enjoyed my time in America last time and I’m excited to get back over there. I 'm very excited," Hardie said.