Gary Stead will step down as head coach of New Zealand’s national cricket team, the Black Caps, at the end of this month. The decision comes after seven years in the role, during which he led the team to several major achievements. New Zealand Cricket announced that a single head coach will now lead all three formats of the game, meaning Stead will not continue in any coaching role with the national team.
Stead, 53, guided the Black Caps to their first-ever ICC World Test Championship title in 2021. He also led the team to a historic 3-0 Test series victory over India in India and reached the finals in five out of six ICC white-ball tournaments.
In a statement, Stead called his time with the team “a privilege” and said he was proud of how the players had grown and competed. He praised former leaders Brendon McCullum and Mike Hesson for laying strong foundations and said he aimed to build on their work.
Stead shared that some of his proudest moments included the team’s performance at the 2019 Cricket World Cup and their consistent success across formats. He said he plans to take a break but is open to coaching opportunities in the future.
Former captain Kane Williamson praised Stead, saying, “He gave everything to the team” and will be remembered as one of the best coaches the Black Caps have had.
Stead’s final duties will include helping players prepare at winter training camps before their July tour to Zimbabwe.
