World Test Championship-winning and long-serving New Zealand coach Gary Stead will step down from his role, bringing an end to a successful seven-year stint with the team.
Stead is regarded as one of the most successful coaches in New Zealand cricket history, having guided the team through a period filled with major achievements. With his contract set to expire soon, he has decided not to seek an extension, saying he feels this is the right time to move on.
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Gary Stead Bows Out
Stead had previously stepped down as white-ball coach but had expressed interest in continuing with the Test team. However, New Zealand Cricket is now looking to appoint a single head coach across all formats, effectively ruling him out. Reflecting on his tenure, Stead expressed gratitude for the opportunity and thanked New Zealand Cricket.
"I also want to pay special thanks to NZC, and in particular all of the support staff I have worked with who are hands-on with the team and in the thick of things day-in and day-out."
He acknowledged that when he took over, the groundwork laid by former coach Mike Hesson and captain Brendon McCullum made his transition easier.
“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.”
Kane-Stead Duo NZ’s Most Successful Pair
Stead also highlighted major milestones during his tenure, including winning the inaugural World Test Championship final against India and a 3-0 series sweep over India in their own backyard.
Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson was the first to congratulate Stead on his successful run.
"Stead gave absolutely everything to the team. There was no one more hardworking and passionate about seeing the Black Caps grow and succeed."
The captain and coach duo took New Zealand to the top of the ICC rankings and secured some memorable trophies, making them one of the most successful captain-coach combinations in New Zealand cricket history.
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