Credit: X
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead won’t continue as New Zealand coach after his contract expires this month. In August 2018, Stead superseded Mike Hesson and took the responsibility of the head coach. Under his leadership, New Zealand delivered their best World Cup performance, concluding their campaign in the 2019 edition of the tournament as runners-up. During his stint, the Kiwi side also became the first World Test Champion in 2021, after beating India in Southampton. In October 2024, the Kiwi team also whitewashed India by 3-0 in a three-match Test competition and registered their first red-ball series win on Indian soil.
“There's been some amazing memories over the past seven years, based around a group of fantastic and talented people who have gone out to give their best for their country, each other and for the fans. Brendon McCullum and Mike Hesson had left the team with strong values and a style of play, and I've just tried to build and shape that further to grow our ability to be consistent in everything we do," said Stead.
Kane Williamson pays tribute to New Zealand’s outgoing coach
Veteran New Zealand batter Kane Williamson has paid tribute to his outgoing coach Stead. The right-handed Kiwi batter has said that Stead is likely to be recalled as New Zealand's one of most successful cricket coaches. "There was no one more hardworking and passionate about seeing the Black Caps grow and succeed. He was always thorough in his planning and preparation and will go down as one of our best coaches, but an even better bloke," said Williamson.
New Zealand’s next assignment is in Zimbabwe, where they will play the T20 International (T20I) tri-series against the home side and South Africa. During the tour, six matches will be played and if New Zealand succeeds in clearing the round-robin stage, they will also feature in the final scheduled to be held on July 26.
