New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has removed Ben Sawyer as the White Ferns head coach with immediate effect following a high-performance review. Sawyer departs despite a contract that was set to run until December 2026.
The decision follows a comprehensive review of the women’s high-performance structure after New Zealand’s campaign in the 2026 T20 World Cup. As part of a broader restructure, the role of White Ferns Manager has been disestablished, leading to the departure of Rachel Pettit. NZC has confirmed the creation of a new ‘Performance Lead’ position to replace the previous management model.
NZC’s Daryl Gibson stated the move was necessary to change the team’s trajectory. “It was a difficult decision which was not made lightly, but it reflects our view that the next stage of the WHITE FERNS journey requires a different leadership approach to support the future direction of the programme,” Gibson said.
The coaching change comes during a significant transition for the national side. Earlier in 2026, veterans Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, and Lea Tahuhu retired from international cricket. Sawyer had previously led the team to their first ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title in 2024, but the side was unable to replicate that success in the 2026 edition.
Captain Melie Kerr acknowledged Sawyer’s commitment to the squad during his four-year tenure. “His preparation was second to none, he poured his heart and soul into the role and left no stone unturned trying to make the team better,” Kerr said.
Sawyer expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the New Zealand side. “Being the WHITE FERNS coach has been a huge honour and I’m really grateful to have had the opportunity to lead this group. This team means a lot to me and I’m really proud of what we’ve been able to achieve in the past four years,” he said.
New Zealand is scheduled to play a three-match T20I series in Australia from October 18 to October 22, 2026. NZC will appoint an interim head coach and manager for the tour while the search for a permanent replacement is conducted.
