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Gary Stead back with New Zealand Cricket in key coaching position

Arunima Purohit

Gary Stead [Source: AFP Photos]Gary Stead [Source: AFP Photos]

Gary Stead returns to New Zealand Cricket after resigning from the head coach position a few months ago. This time, he will join the Blackcaps' high-performance team instead of leading the New Zealand team as their head coach. In his new role, his expertise and experience will come in handy. 

After seven years as the head coach, this new assignment will keep him closer to the Blackcaps for future tournaments. This time, he will be working behind the scenes to shape the future of New Zealand cricket. 

Focus on player and coach development

Stead will devote most of his time to working with NZC's high-performance unit in his new role. The role's responsibilities include mentoring and developing coaches, focusing on player development pathways, and providing advice for programmes at the domestic and national levels. 

Moreover, NZC officials were pleased with the appointment, acknowledging that Stead has the required experience at the top levels to assist in developing the next group of coaches. His awareness of international cricket and the New Zealand grassroots systems should provide a slight balance between intentional long-term thinking and the instant-performance needs of the game.

I'm still passionate about coaching: Gary Stead

Former head coach Gary Stead opened up about wanting to coach New Zealand and spread skills and experience to the players. Stead had been an incredible coach, guiding the Black Caps to World Cup finals and maintaining consistency across formats. 

"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 Black Caps and White Ferns win on the world stage - than that would be really satisfying," said Gary Stead as quoted by ICC.

His return to a mentoring role demonstrates his commitment to the national game, which is alive and well. With a clear focus on the long term, Stead will exert significant influence over generations of cricketers who come through the pipeline.