Gary Stead Appointed to Elevate NZC’s Performance Coaching

Gary Stead, the former head coach of New Zealand, has embraced a high performance coaching position with New Zealand Cricket (NZC). In this role, he will focus on developing players, supporting other coaches, and enhancing high performance programs.

After an eight-year term as head coach, where he led New Zealand to remarkable achievements such as winning the World Test Championship in 2021 and achieving a groundbreaking whitewash against India, Stead is now commencing a new chapter. Under his guidance, New Zealand also reached the finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2021, the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019, and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025.

Stead’s association with NZC spans 34 years, originating from his playing days where he represented New Zealand in five Tests. With over 100 combined appearances in First-Class and List A matches, Stead transitioned into various coaching roles, including serving as a coach development manager from 2004 to 2009 and an assistant coach at the NZC Academy from 2005 to 2006.

Later, he became the head coach of the New Zealand women’s team from 2009 to 2012 before taking on the role of director of cricket for Canterbury for six years. His dedication culminated in being appointed the head coach for the New Zealand men’s team in 2018.

Stead expressed his ongoing commitment to cricket and his eagerness to share his expertise within the broader cricket community.

“New Zealand Cricket has been a significant part of my life for over three decades, and being able to continue contributing to the game I cherish is truly rewarding,” he stated.

“I am still passionate about coaching and aiding others in learning and developing. It would be fulfilling to impart my skills and experiences to the wider cricket network, helping teams like the Blackcaps and White Ferns achieve success on the international stage.”

Stead was recently named as the head coach for the Indian domestic side Andhra for the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, and he acknowledged NZC for permitting him to explore opportunities beyond the organization to further enhance his skills.

“I am grateful for the chance to gain insights outside of NZC, broadening my perspectives and potentially bringing back what I learn to enrich our cricket environment,” he commented.