David White to step down as NZC Chief in August

Eleven years after being appointed to the CEO position of New Zealand Cricket (NZC), David White is all set to end his long tenure as the helm in August this year.

In what has been a long and distinguished stint, White has been only the fourth CEO of the NZ Board ever since the Hood Report recommendations were put in place back in 1995. Reflecting on his time at the top, White felt that there couldn't have been a better timeline to let go of his position.

"I feel the time is right for myself, my family, and NZC", White said. "NZC is in a secure financial position with a solid balance sheet and long-term commercial agreements in place.

"The BLACKCAPS are strong; women's cricket is healthy, our high performance programme is producing excellence, and the community game is stable. It feels like the right time to step aside."

White extended his gratitude to the length and breadth of New Zealand cricket and felt that the success achieved under him was nothing but a result of a collective effort. Right from the players and administrative staff to the key stakeholders involved, everyone had been in sync with White's vision.

"I'm incredibly grateful to the Major and District Associations, the staff and Boards of NZC, our players and, not least, the New Zealand Cricket Players Association, for their willingness to share an aligned vision and strategy. Nothing happens in isolation, and I think everyone involved can be really proud of what's been achieved."

The final part of White's tenure will be spent in ensuring that the upcoming New Zealand summer goes according to plan. NZC Chairman Martin Snedden was profuse in his praise of the outgoing CEO.

"David's legacy has been immense," said Snedden. "Our high performance systems have never been stronger, our cricket network has a level of financial security and stability never before experienced, and the future for women and girls has never been brighter.

"We've seen the BLACKCAPS qualify for three World Cup finals and win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship title, something no-one would've had on their bingo card in 2012, I'm sure. David's commercial acumen has driven revenue, enabling increased investment across the organisation.

"His administrative skills have unearthed unique, bespoke solutions for our high-performance programmes and infrastructure - no better illustrated than in the all-weather, turf-based training facilities now located throughout the country.

"Under David, cricket in New Zealand has become far more inclusive, especially in regard to women and girls, our tangata whenua, and our Pasifika communities."

"When you think of how he navigated the Covid-19 pandemic, preserving the integrity of the community, domestic and international game, and his strong influence at ICC level, it makes you realise just how lucky we've been to have him at the helm.

"David leaves NZC with our sincere gratitude and best wishes."