Geoff Allott appointed as New Zealand Crickets new Chief Executive

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has appointed former international fast bowler Geoff Allott as its new Chief Executive. Allott will assume the role on July 1, following the resignation of Scott Weenink late last year.

The 54-year-old represented New Zealand in 10 Tests and 31 One Day Internationals between 1996 and 2000. He is best remembered for his outstanding performance in the 1999 ODI World Cup, where he took 20 wickets in nine matches, finishing as one of the tournament’s leading wicket-takers.

However, it is not just his playing career but his extensive experience in cricket administration and governance that has led to his appointment. Allott was a founding board member of the NZC Players Association in 2002. He later served as General Manager of Cricket at NZC from 2008 to 2010. In addition, he was involved with the Canterbury Cricket board and served as a director on the NZC board from 2013 to 2021. In 2022, he was awarded NZC Life Membership in recognition of his services to New Zealand Cricket.

Allott takes over at a critical time for NZC. Scott Weenink stepped down following disagreements with provincial associations and the players’ association over the long-term direction of the game. The dispute largely centered around plans to introduce a privately owned NZ20 tournament by 2027, replacing the Super Smash.

Speaking about his new role, Allott said he aims to bring unity within the organization. He emphasized working collaboratively with players, the board, staff, and stakeholders to build a positive environment and achieve success both on and off the field.

NZC Chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon said Allott’s experience, cricket knowledge, and commercial leadership make him the ideal candidate for the role. She expressed confidence that under his leadership, New Zealand Cricket will move forward into a new phase of growth and development.