Gary Stead returns to NZC as high-performance coach

Former New Zealand cricketer Gary Stead has been appointed as athehigh-performance coach by New Zealand Cricket. His role will comprise nurturing players and coaches in addition to secondary functions. 

Earlier this year, Stead wrapped up an eight-year stint as New Zealand’s head coach. He was at the helm when the Kiwis clinched the 2019-21 World Test Championship final by defeating India. He also oversaw the team's iconic 3-0 win against India away from home last year. In addition to all this, Stead was an integral component of a team that reached the final of the World Cup 2019, T20 World Cup 2021 and Champions Trophy 2025.

Stead, who has been a part of NZC for the past 34 years, expressed that he remains eager to build on his coaching expertise and contribute to New Zealand's success. 

"New Zealand cricket's very much been at my heart for the past 30 odd years and to be able to keep contributing to the game I love is really special. I'm still passionate about coaching and trying to help people learn and improve. If I can pass on some of my skills and experiences to the wider cricket network and in turn help the Black Caps and White Ferns win on the world stage - then that would be really satisfying," Stead was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

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Speaking of his coaching career, Stead started as a coach development manager (2004-09) before transitioning to an assistant coach at the NZC Academy (2005-06). He was then the head coach of the women's group from 2009 to 2012. Stead was then appointed as Canterbury's Director of Cricket till 2018. From 2018, he was appointed as the head coach of the men's team.