Gary Stead steps down from NZ white-ball role, considers future in Test coaching
Under his guidance, New Zealand reached the finals of three global tournaments, and Gary Stead, one of the most successful coaches in the country’s history, is now contemplating his future in red-ball cricket.
Though his current contract runs until June, Stead has decided to step down early from one of his roles. He will no longer serve as New Zealand’s coach in limited-overs formats. At 53, Stead is now considering whether he will reapply for the role of Test coach.
His decision hints at a significant shift in New Zealand cricket, suggesting the team is likely to adopt a split-coaching system for red and white-ball formats. There’s already strong speculation that Rob Walter, who recently resigned from his white-ball duties with South Africa, could be in line to take over as New Zealand’s new limited-overs coach.
Stead took over as New Zealand’s head coach in 2018. Though his playing career was limited to just five Tests, his coaching legacy has cemented his place among the greats of Kiwi cricket — and earned global recognition in the process.
Under his leadership, New Zealand reached the 2019 ODI World Cup final, only to miss out on the trophy due to the boundary count rule in a thrilling, unforgettable finish.
They also made it to the finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup and this year’s Champions Trophy. Despite often missing key players, New Zealand remained a consistently strong side under his tenure. During this period, the team’s depth improved significantly, with an expanded player pool making a noticeable impact — a testament to which was seen recently when a second-string New Zealand side convincingly defeated Pakistan in both T20 and ODI series.
Stead also found success in the Test arena. His crowning achievement came when New Zealand won the inaugural ICC World Test Championship. That historic triumph was followed by a stunning whitewash of India in their own backyard last year — considered one of the greatest moments in New Zealand’s Test cricket history. Numerous other memorable Test wins came under his leadership as well.
Now, Stead says he’s looking for a break from the relentless travel that comes with international coaching, while also leaving the door open for a continued role with the Test team.
“I want to step away from the touring life for a little while and reflect on what lies ahead. Since last September, it’s been six or seven months of non-stop cricket. I want to take some time to consider my options. I still feel I have more to offer in coaching, though maybe not across all formats,” he said.
“I’ll get a chance to speak with my wife and family, assess the situation, and then I’ll have a better idea of whether I want to reapply for the Test coach’s role,” he added.
