The contract of Ben Sawyer, head coach of New Zealand women's team, who won the T20 World Cup, ends, NZC did not renew it
The tenure of head coach Ben Sawyer, who led the New Zealand women's cricket team (White Ferns) to their first ICC Women's T20 World Cup title in 2024, has ended. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has decided not to extend his contract.
The decision was taken after a comprehensive review process of the women's high-performance structure by NZC. Along with Ben Sawyer, team manager Rachel Pettit will also step down from their posts. Australian-born Ben Sawyer's contract was to expire in December this year.
Main Achievements of Ben Sawyer
- First T20 World Cup title: Under the guidance of Sawyer, the New Zealand women's team created history by winning the 2024 ICC Women's T20 World Cup held in Dubai.
- Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022: During his tenure the team won the bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
- Developing young talent: After taking over in mid-2022, he played a key role in grooming young stars like Georgia Plimmer, Aidan Carson and Izzy Gaze.
What did Ben Sawyer and captain Mellie Kerr say on their farewell?
- Ben Sawyer: "It has been a huge honor to be the coach of the White Ferns (New Zealand team). Although I am disappointed at not receiving a contract extension, I am proud of what we have achieved over the last four years. I wish the team and NZC all the best for the future."
- Captain Melie Kerr: "Ben sacrificed everything for this team. The faith he showed in us helped us overcome difficult times and win the World Cup. We are grateful to him for his contribution."
Further plans
The New Zealand team will tour with an interim head coach and team manager for the T20I series against Australia next month. The process of appointing a full-time head coach will be started soon.
