‘Got my full support and confidence’- New Zealand Cricket CEO backs Gary Stead despite turmoil

Tim Southee, the captain of the New Zealand Test team, resigned after his team lost to Sri Lanka 2-0 in the series. Following the Black Caps’ dismal performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, Kane Williamson tendered his resignation as the team’s white-ball captain. Recent decisions by a number of New Zealand players to decline central contracts have had a negative effect on the squad in both red and white-ball cricket.

CEO of New Zealand Cricket Scott Weenick has backed head coach Gary Stead in the interim and believes he can turn things around. He expressed his support and reminded the group that Stead will be supported by the governing body for the Champions Trophy and the ongoing World Test Championship because his contract will expire in the middle of next year.

Gary’s contract expires in the middle of the following year. That’s when the World Test Championship and the Champions Trophy take place. I have complete faith and support for him. We’ve had ten years of unheard-of success, but you’re always going to have times, Weenick was reported as saying by NZ Herald.

As many of these once-in-a-generation athletes reach the end of their careers, outcomes will inevitably shift and possibly decline. However, we feel very at ease with the depth that is emerging. We are confident that a sufficient number of current players are continuing to play and developing the next generation,” he continued.

We’re close as a group: Tim Southee

Despite the run of losses, Southee said that the New Zealand team are united, passing the Test torch to Tom Latham on Wednesday. In the forthcoming three-match Test series against India and then at home against England, he thinks it’s a fantastic time to be in cricket.

Also Read: Tim Southee steps down as New Zealand Test captain; Tom Latham takes over

We’re a close-knit bunch that hangs out frequently. It’s a thrilling moment. After two dismal outcomes against Sri Lanka in the first two tests, we still have six test matches remaining. In roughly eight or nine days, the boys will get back together and continue on,” the 35-year-old stated.