Gary Stead Returns to NZC as High-Performance Coach

Gary Stead Returns to NZC as High-Performance Coach

Former New Zealand men's head coach Gary Stead has rejoined New Zealand Cricket (NZC) as a high-performance coach, just over three months after stepping down from his seven-year tenure with the national team.

In his new role, Stead will be responsible for supporting player and coach development, and contributing to NZC’s high-performance programmes. The role averages about three days a week over the course of the year and allows Stead the flexibility to pursue other coaching opportunities outside the NZC structure.

“New Zealand cricket’s very much been at my heart for the past 30-odd years and to be able to keep contributing to the game I love is really special,” Stead said in an NZC statement. “I’m still passionate about coaching and trying to help people learn and improve. If I can pass on some of my skills and experiences to the wider cricket network and in turn help the BLACKCAPS and WHITE FERNS win on the world stage – then that would be really satisfying.”

Stead also expressed gratitude for the freedom to coach beyond the NZC system. “I’m also appreciative of the opportunity to work outside of NZC to broaden my skills and experiences and hopefully I can bring what I learn back into our cricket environment.”

Continues Role with Andhra in Indian Domestic Cricket

One of Stead’s prominent outside commitments is with the Andhra Cricket Association in India, where he was recently appointed head coach of the men’s team for the 2025–26 domestic season. That role will continue alongside his NZC duties.

Stead has remained active since his departure from the national team setup, offering interim coaching support to Otago over the winter pre-season and participating in a New Zealand Under-19 training camp earlier this month.

NZC Welcomes Stead’s Expertise

Daryl Gibson, NZC's chief high-performance officer, welcomed Stead’s return, citing his vast experience and continued passion for the game.

“Gary’s knowledge and experiences in cricket are immense, and the fact he’s still passionate and motivated to give back to the game in this country speaks volumes about his character,” Gibson said.

“His role will see him work across much of the high-performance network, allowing our national and domestic coaches, players and staff to tap into his expertise and IP. His part-time appointment with Andhra will only add to his knowledge base, which he can feed back into our system.”

A Steady Career in Coaching

Stead is New Zealand's most successful men’s head coach, with highlights including:

  • Winning the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021

  • A historic 3-0 Test series win in India in 2024

  • Regular top-tier finishes across formats during his tenure

His coaching career spans over two decades, including previous stints as:

  • NZC’s coach development manager (2004–2009)

  • Assistant coach at the NZC Academy

  • Head coach of the New Zealand Women’s team (2009–2012)

  • Head coach and director of cricket at Canterbury (2012–2018)

Stead took over as head coach of the BlackCaps in 2018, guiding them through one of the most successful eras in New Zealand cricket history.

With Stead’s return, NZC will look to further strengthen its development pathways as the national teams prepare for a packed international calendar ahead.