New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has confirmed the return of Gary Stead, who steps back into the system as high-performance coach, three months after ending his successful seven-year tenure as head coach of the national men’s team.
For many, Stead is remembered for guiding the Black Caps to their greatest triumphs in recent years — the 2021 World Test Championship title and the historic 3-0 sweep of India in a Test series in 2024. Yet, for women’s cricket, his reappointment brings added significance. His coaching journey has deep roots in the women’s game, making his expertise vital for the next chapter of the White Ferns.
Gary Stead first entered the New Zealand cricket framework as a coach development manager (2004–2009) and later worked as an assistant coach at the NZC Academy (2005–06). The turning point for women’s cricket came in 2009, when he was appointed head coach of the New Zealand women’s team.
From 2009 to 2012, Stead guided the White Ferns through a period of renewal, shaping players who went on to play a key role internationally.
Following this, he went on to become Canterbury’s head coach and director of cricket (2012–18), before stepping into the men’s senior team role in 2018. Now, with his shift back to high performance, Stead’s direct experience with the women’s game provides the White Ferns with a mentor who understands their challenges from the ground up.
In his new role, Stead will focus on player and coach development, overseeing high performance programmes that stretch across both the Blackcaps and White Ferns.
Reflecting on his connection with New Zealand cricket, Stead highlighted just how close it is to him personally, “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.”
Stead’s coaching philosophy remains centered on teaching, mentoring, and leaving a legacy that extends beyond results. His words reflect his intention to directly support the White Ferns’ continued pursuit of global success, “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 Blackcaps and White Ferns win on the world stage – than that would be really satisfying.”
Unlike his previous role, this appointment also allows Stead to work outside NZC — broadening his coaching portfolio and bringing fresh perspectives back into the New Zealand setup.
Currently, this includes serving as head coach of the Andhra men’s team in India for the 2025–26 domestic season. He also provided interim coaching support to Otago Cricket over the winter pre-season and recently engaged with the New Zealand Under-19 camp.
The White Ferns stand at a critical point, with the need for stronger performances on the world stage and a consistent supply of talent from the domestic structure. Stead’s blend of international success, experience in both the women’s and men’s systems, and passion for long-term development is likely to directly benefit women’s cricket in New Zealand.
His appointment signals NZC’s commitment to ensuring that both senior teams thrive — with shared access to elite coaching, modern development strategies, and a stronger high-performance culture.
(Quotes sourced from New Zealand Cricket Press Release)
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