In a significant move for New Zealand Cricket (NZC), the board has appointed former pace bowler Geoff Allott as the new chief executive. This decision follows the resignation of Scott Weenink from the position late last year. At 54 years of age, Allott boasts a notable playing history.
Allott’s peak performance was during the 1999 Cricket World Cup, where he emerged as a joint highest wicket-taker, claiming 20 wickets at an average of 16.25 across nine matches. Throughout his career, he participated in a total of 10 Test matches and 31 One Day Internationals (ODIs) from 1996 to 2000.
Allott’s appointment is largely attributed to his experience in governance and cricket management. Following his playing career, he became a founding board member of the NZC Players Association in 2002 and served as the General Manager of Cricket at NZC from 2008 to 2010. He will be NZC’s sixth CEO and aims to foster unity within the board during his tenure.
Upon the announcement of his appointment, Allott expressed his strong connection to New Zealand Cricket. “Having worn the silver fern as a player, served as General Manager of Cricket, and contributed for over eight years as a board director, I have a deep connection to this organization and our game,” he stated, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
He emphasized his commitment to collaboration, saying, “I look forward to working collaboratively with the board, players, staff, member associations, and our commercial partners to build strong relationships, foster a positive and constructive culture, and deliver outstanding results both on and off the field.”
