Ben Sawyer Secures Contract Extension as Coach of New Zealand Women's Cricket
Click to start listening
Wellington, Dec 9 (NationPress) New Zealand's women's cricket coach Ben Sawyer has been awarded a two-year contract extension, which will keep him in charge until December 2026.
This extension means that Sawyer will manage New Zealand's efforts at the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup in India next year, as well as their defense of the T20 World Cup title in England in 2026.
Sawyer initially joined the New Zealand women's team under a two-year contract in June 2022, which was later extended to cover the October tour to India.
NZC Head of Women’s High Performance Liz Green emphasized the importance of Sawyer continuing to build on the existing positive momentum.
“We’re thrilled to have Ben commit for another two years. He has instilled a significant level of belief and trust in this team, and retaining him is crucial for both the current squad and the long-term strategy for the White Ferns. Consistency and stability are key,” said Green.
“Ben has played a vital role in advancing the White Ferns and strengthening the women’s pathway. Many young players who made their international debuts during Ben’s initial tour two years ago are now thriving, as evidenced by their performance in the recent T20 World Cup. There was substantial development throughout that tournament, thanks to Ben and the coaches' efforts over the past two years,” Green added.
Team captain Sophie Devine stated that Sawyer’s continuation would bring essential stability. “I’m thrilled that Ben has re-signed with us. The impact he’s had on the WHITE FERNS and women’s cricket in New Zealand has been monumental,” she said.
“The team is currently in a strong position, so securing his services for another two years will greatly benefit us,” she added.
Sawyer's immediate task is the upcoming three-match ICC Women's Championship ODI series at home against Australia, where the White Ferns aim to maintain their chances for automatic qualification for next year's 50-over World Cup.
The squad for the three-match ODI series against Australia at Wellington’s Cello Basin Reserve will be announced later this week, as stated by New Zealand Cricket.
