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Walter Eyes Coaching Future in New Zealand
Rob Walter linked to NZ role after resigning as South Africa’s white-ball coach, a decision tied to his long-term stay and family life in New Zealand. Walter, who moved there in 2016, could now be considered for a coaching role with the New Zealand men’s national team.
Yes, Rob Walter linked to NZ role as current head coach Gary Stead’s contract ends in June, and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) begins weighing new options—potentially moving to a split coaching model for different formats.
A Changing Coaching Landscape
Stead has been in charge since 2018 and has renewed his contract twice, most recently in July 2023. But with a growing number of senior players—Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Lockie Ferguson—stepping away from central contracts, NZC is reevaluating the one-coach system.
The captaincy is already split:
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Tom Latham leads the Test team.
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Mitchell Santner captains the white-ball side.
Naturally, the next step may be split-format coaching.
Walter’s Background Fits the Model
Walter is familiar with the split system. Since 2023, he led South Africa’s ODI and T20I teams, while Shukri Conrad handled the Test side. Walter guided the Proteas to their first-ever World Cup final appearance at the 2024 T20 World Cup, but his bilateral series record was underwhelming.
He also faced heat over transformation policies—South Africa’s World Cup squad featured only one black African player. However, the biggest factor in his resignation was the travel demands and his refusal to relocate from New Zealand, despite initial discussions with Cricket South Africa (CSA).
“He’d only agreed to consider relocating,” sources revealed, “and decided against moving his family from New Zealand.”
Walter has two young sons and had made his home in New Zealand after coaching stints with Otago and Central Stags, along with prior experience as South Africa’s fielding and conditioning coach from 2009 to 2013.
What’s Next?
Walter was contracted with CSA through the 2027 ODI World Cup, which South Africa will co-host. Now, Shukri Conrad is a strong candidate to take over all formats. CSA is expected to meet next week to finalize the process for appointing a new coach.
| Coach | Status |
|---|---|
| Rob Walter | Resigned from South Africa role |
| Gary Stead | Contract ends June 2025 |
| Shukri Conrad | Favourite for all-format role in SA |
| NZC Approach | Considering split coaching roles |
If appointed, Walter would return to a system he knows well, and one that suits his personal life. For New Zealand Cricket, it may just be the right time for a fresh voice.
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