New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have roped in Rob Walter as the head coach for the senior men's side across all three formats. The 49-year-old's contract runs till the 2028 T20 World Cup that Australia and New Zealand shall co-host.
Walter replaces Gary Stead, who announced his decision to step down from the role after the completion of his contract, which runs till the end of the month. Walter himself is fresh off a fairly successful stint with the South Africa senior men's side, having been at the helm there from January 2023 till April 2025.
Under Walter, South Africa experienced an impressive phase, reaching the semifinals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, while also securing a runners-up finish at the 2024 T20 World Cup. However, the packed schedule and constant travel forced Walter to resign, with two years still left on his contract. Taking the New Zealand job comes at an ideal point, given that it is home turf for Walter, who also boasts a successful CV in the country's domestic circuit.
Walter was at the helm for Otago Volts, who had a strong run during 2018-20, and then went on to coach Central Stags to title glory across formats. The New Zealander also has solid experience in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he served as assistant coach for Pune Warriors India and Delhi Capitals. Walter is understandably thrilled at the prospect of coaching his own country at the highest level.
“The BLACKCAPS have been a successful and highly-regarded team on the world scene for some time now and it’s a real privilege to be given the chance to add to that,” said Walter in the NZC press release
“It’s an amazing opportunity to work with such a talented group of players and support staff through a period of time in which so many global events, as well as massive bilateral series, will be contested.
“I just can’t wait to get started. It’s exciting, it’s challenging, and the opportunity is enormous for everyone.”
NZC Chief Executive Scott Weenink lavished praise on Walter and hoped that this timely move would prove to be mutually beneficial to both parties.
“Rob is a world-class coach with an outstanding pedigree,” said Weenink in the press release.
“His success in New Zealand’s domestic game, combined with his recent achievements on the global stage with South Africa, makes him the ideal candidate to lead the BLACKCAPS.
“We’re excited to welcome Rob back home to guide our team through an exciting and challenging period, including three major ICC events.”
