Cricket: Former Blackcaps batter Craig McMillan joins White Ferns coaching staff

  • 07/06/2024
Craig McMillan coached with the Blackcaps from 2014 to 2019.
Craig McMillan coached with the Blackcaps from 2014 to 2019. Photo credit: Getty Images

Former Blackcaps batter Craig McMillan will join the White Ferns as an assistant coach on a two-year contract.

The veteran of 260 international appearances for New Zealand was a member of the Blackcaps coaching staff from 2014 to 2019, helping them to World Cup runners-up at consecutive tournaments in 2015 and 2019.

His most recent coaching stint was as a batting consultant for Canterbury last season and he also featured as a fielding coach for IPL's Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab) in 2018.

McMillan has opted to step out of his role as commentator and is excited about moving back into the thick of the action with the NZ women, as they build towards the World Cup in Bangladesh in October.

"I'm rapt with the appointment and to be back involved in coaching international cricket again," he said.

"It'll be great to be part of the White Ferns family as we head into a busy nine-month schedule with some exciting challenges ahead.

"I've watched these talented White Ferns a lot from close quarters over the past few seasons and can't wait to join Ben, Dean and the management team in driving the group forward."

Head coach Ben Sawyer is pleased with McMillan's appointment.

"We're extremely happy to have Craig on board with the White Ferns program," said Sawyer.

"He's a proven coach with an extensive international playing career."

Sawyer says McMillan's knowledge of diverse conditions alongside his tournament experience as a player and coach would be invaluable at the upcoming World Cup.

"The players are excited to start working with Craig; they're looking forward to having him on board for the upcoming tour to England."