Long-serving New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White to step down in August

  • 10/05/2023
David White.
David White. Photo credit: Photosport

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) chief executive David White will leave his role at the end of August.

White, 61, has been NZ Cricket's chief executive since February 2012 but will leave the role later this year after arguably the strongest period the sport has enjoyed in Aotearoa.

"I feel the time is right for myself, my family and NZC," he 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."

In White's tenure as chief executive, the Blackcaps reached four world finals across all three forms of the game - winning the World Test Championship in 2021.

As an administrator, White also oversaw the new landmark Master Agreement with the New Zealand Cricket Players Association.

That agreement sees New Zealand's men's and women's players guaranteed the same match fee payments, as well as equity in travel, accommodation and wider playing and training costs.

As chief executive, White was also in charge through the financial perils of the COVID-19 pandemic, at a time where global sport took a significant hit.

"David's legacy has been immense," said NZC board chair Martin 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.

"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."

No word or timeline has been given on when a new chief executive will be appointed by NZC.