Gary Stead Optimistic Of Contract Extension As New Zealand Coach

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead has carried on the legacy created by Mike Hesson for the team. New Zealand enjoyed one of their flourishing periods when Mike Hesson was at the helm, notably reaching their first-ever World Cup final in 2015. And as Gary Stead has remained successful in building it further, he is optimistic about his contract extension.

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Gary Stead’s two-year term as a coach was supposed to come to a close after the T20 World Cup in Australia. However, the tournament, which was scheduled to take place in Australia, got postponed by one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under Stead, the Kiwis made it to their second successive World Cup final last year but were again unsuccessful in capturing the title. During Hesson and Stead’s tenure, the Kiwis have also become a competitive Test team.

Gary Stead remarked that talks have been very positive. He said that if the players and the management feel he is impacting the team positively, he would be honoured to continue. The Black Caps’ last international assignment was a One-day international against Australia in March this year, which they lost.

“Talks have been pretty positive and, if New Zealand Cricket and the players feel as though I can keep contributing then I’d be interested in continuing on,” Stead said as quoted by Hindustan Times.

I really enjoy working with Kane: Gary Stead

The 48-year-old brushed aside discussions about Tom Latham replacing Kane Williamson as the skipper of New Zealand. He acknowledged that they both share great bond and dynamics, doing everything that is best for the team.

The national team’s next assignment is a bilateral home series against the West Indies, which would go ahead subject to government permissions and apt quarantine facilities.

“Kane and I have a really strong relationship, and we spoke about it. There was no basis in truth and the disappointing part is it’s coming from somewhere and someone, but it’s not Kane and it’s not I. I really enjoy working with Kane. The discussions we have are robust and always directed at what’s best for the team, which is something I know we are truly aligned on,” the Christchurch-born added.

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