New Zealand Cricket Confirms Gary Stead as Head Coach until 2025

Gary Stead has been confirmed as the head coach of the New Zealand men’s cricket team until mid-2025, according to an announcement by NZC on Tuesday (July 11).

Stead’s Contract Extension

Originally appointed for a two-year term in late 2018, Stead’s contract was renewed in 2020 until the end of the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in India. Now, he will stay on until June 2025, which marks the conclusion of the current World Test Championship cycle.

Unanimous Support for Stead

The decision to retain Stead as head coach follows a thorough consultative process. Stead, who is arguably New Zealand’s most successful men’s coach, received unanimous support from players, support staff, coaches, and the New Zealand Cricket Players Association.

Positive Results and Continued Contribution

Bryan Stronach, NZC’s GM High-Performance, stated that the case for retaining Stead was compelling. He mentioned that Gary’s impressive results and his desire to continue leading the team played a significant role in the decision.

Consideration of Split-Coaching Model

While considering options for the coaching role, NZC discussed a split-coaching model but ultimately rejected it. The organization found it more beneficial to support the status quo, given the strong and positive culture of the team. However, NZC remains open to adding additional coaching staff if needed.

Introduction of Fresh Voices and Ideas

Bryan mentioned that NZC will continue to introduce fresh voices and new ideas to players through the “fourth coach” concept. This involves supporting Blackcaps touring squads with coaches who possess specialist skills or knowledge of specific overseas environments or formats.

Upcoming Events

Stead’s reappointment period includes coaching the team in the ICC T20 World Cup in June/July 2024, the ICC ODI Champions Trophy in February/March 2025, and potentially the ICC World Test Championship Final in June 2025.

Process and Satisfaction

NZC chief executive David White expressed satisfaction with the detailed and robust process that led to Stead’s reappointment. He assured fans that all options were carefully considered, and he wished Stead well for the next two years.

Player Support and Role of Head Coach

Test captain Tim Southee expressed the players’ satisfaction with Stead’s reappointment, highlighting his success in leading the team to finals and the World Test Championship victory. Southee also emphasized that the modern-day head coach’s role involves managing people as much as the technical aspects of the game.

The decision follows a long and thorough consultative process during which Stead, arguably New Zealand’s most successful men’s coach, received unanimous support for continuing in the role.https://t.co/do54zxV3Be

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) July 10, 2023