NZC CEO to step down amid differences over T20 priorities
Scott Weenink will step down as chief executive of New Zealand Cricket on January 30, 2026. He informed the board of his decision on Friday (December 19).
In a media statement, Weenink said the move followed differences with several member associations and the New Zealand Cricket Players' Association over the organisation's future priorities and long-term direction, including the role of T20 cricket in New Zealand.
"After careful consideration, it has become clear that I hold a different view from several Member Associations, and the NZCPA, on the future priorities for NZC, including the long-term direction of the game and the best role for T20 cricket in New Zealand," Weenink said. "Given these differences, I believe it is in the best interests of the organisation that new leadership takes NZC forward from here."
Weenink's announcement comes at a time when New Zealand Cricket is understood to be weighing key decisions around its domestic T20 structure, including plans to introduce a new franchise-based league by January 2027, which would replace the Super Smash.
Weenink, who was appointed CEO in August 2023, said he was proud of the progress made during his two-and-a-half-year tenure, highlighting record financial performances and long-term broadcast agreements with Sky and Sony.
"It has been a privilege to lead NZC, and I am proud of what the organisation has achieved in the past two and a half years," he said.
The period also saw notable on-field success, including the New Zealand Women's T20 World Cup triumph and the Men's series win over India, as well as their appearance in the Champions Trophy final.
While acknowledging those achievements, Weenink said he did not want to create instability by continuing without the support of key stakeholders. "While I am saddened to leave after such a successful period, I do not wish to create ongoing instability by continuing without the support of some key stakeholders," he said.
NZC Board chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon thanked Weenink for his contribution: "NZC acknowledges and thanks Scott for his positive contribution to New Zealand Cricket during his time as CEO, and wishes him well for the future."
