Ben Sawyer reinstated as New Zealand women’s head coach following an extensive review process by the New Zealand board.
Ben Sawyer reappointed New Zealand women’s head coach for two years.
Sawyer will be in charge until December 2026. Earlier this year, he led New Zealand to their first-ever T20 World Cup victory, defeating South Africa in the final. The women’s T20 World Cup in England in mid-2026 and the women’s ODI World Cup in India in late 2025 are within this time frame.
“I’m stoked Ben’s re-signed with us,” white-ball captain Sophie Devine said. “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.”
Sawyer was initially hired as the head coach of New Zealand in June 2022 on a two-year contract that lasted until the conclusion of the India tour in October 2024. Sawyer previously served as an assistant coach with the Australia women’s team. According to a press release from NZC, his reappointment comes after a thorough assessment process.
Before the T20 World Cup, New Zealand had only won one out of 13 Twenty20 Internationals, so they had a rough start to the season. However, they improved in the United Arab Emirates.
“We’re so pleased to have Ben sign on for another two years,” Liz Green, NZC head of women’s high performance, said. “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.
“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.”
Next up for New Zealand is a three-match ODI series against Australia, which begins in Wellington on December 19. Later this week, the series’ roster will be public.
The T20 World Cup trophy will be on display at the forthcoming games, “allowing fans to see it up close and take pictures,” according to NZC.