Renowned coach in Australia’s domestic circuit and current Head Coach of New Zealand Women, Ben Sawyer has been handed a contract extension as he was re-appointed as the coach for another two years. Notably, Sawyer was the man in charge of the White Ferns who clinched their maiden T20 World Cup title earlier this year in the UAE. Notably, they had defeated South Africa women in the summit clash.
Meanwhile, it was revealed that Sawyer will continue to give his services until December 2026. This would mean that he will oversee the team affairs for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, which is scheduled to take late next year in India. Moreover, he will also help the team to prepare for another edition of the T20 World Cup, which will be played in 2026 in England.
“I’m stoked Ben’s re-signed with us. The work he’s done with the White Ferns group and for women’s cricket in New Zealand has been huge. The team is in a great spot right now, so I think locking him in for another two years and having that consistency will be big for us,” said Sophie Devine, the limited-overs Captain of New Zealand Women as per ESPN Cricinfo.
For the unversed, Ben Sawyer has also worked with Australia Women in the past before getting appointed as the Head Coach of the White Ferns aka New Zealand Women. This appointment was for a two-year duration which was inked in June month of year 2022. This tenure concluded after the conclusion of the India tour which took place in October this year.
Quite unbelievably, the White Ferns had a terrible start to their year 2024 as they tasted victory in just one T20I out of the 13 games they played in the shortest format before heading for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition. However, in what was a dramatic turnaround, the Kiwis’ winning potential was unlocked by Sawyer just at the right time to reach the glory days.
“We’re so pleased to have Ben sign on for another two years. He’s unlocked a lot of belief and trust in this group and to have him stay now is massive, both for the current squad, and the long-term planning for the White Ferns. The consistency and stability is important,” said Liz Green, the head of the NZC Women’s High Performance.
“Ben’s played a big part in progressing the White Ferns and helping build the women’s pathway. There was a huge amount of growth during that tournament, a result of what Ben and the coaches have been building over the last two years,” She concluded.
New Zealand to play ODI series against Australia at home
Speaking of New Zealand women’s next assignment, they will get to play at home against Australia women in a three-match ODI series. Notably, the series will commence on December 19, in Wellington. As far as the squad is concerned for the upcoming series, it is expected to be announced by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) within this week.
Also Read: Australia Women name squad for India ODIs, New Zealand tour
Besides, NZC also made an announcement for the fans that the T20 World Cup trophy will be up on display for them in a bid to allow them to take photos and see it right in front of their eyes.
Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.