Gavin Larsen will take over as selection manager of the New Zealand men’s cricket team, replacing Sam Wells. New Zealand Cricket confirmed his appointment on its official website. He starts his new role on November 3.
Larsen played for New Zealand in both Tests and ODIs. He also led Cricket Wellington as Chief Executive and worked as Cricket Operations Manager before the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. From 2015 to 2023, he served as BLACKCAPS selection manager.
After that, he joined Warwickshire County Cricket Club as Performance Director. He later returned home and became Commercial Manager of the Nelson Giants basketball team.
His Role in the Team
Larsen will work closely with Head Coach Rob Walter to select squads for the BLACKCAPS, New Zealand A, and New Zealand XI for all tours.
“I feel absolutely honoured to be stepping back into the BLACKCAPS and the national high-performance environment,” Larsen said.
“I’m hugely passionate about cricket in this country, and to be given another opportunity to contribute at the highest level is really exciting. I can’t wait to get started this summer and hopefully help play a part in continuing the success of the BLACKCAPS,” he added.
NZC on Larsen’s Strengths
NZC Chief High Performance Officer Daryl Gibson said the selection manager oversees squad selection and works with domestic scouts. He added that the role also involves regular communication with Major Association coaches.
“Gavin’s familiarity with the role and his understanding of the requirements played an important part in his appointment,” he said. “But we were also impressed with his passion and energy, and his desire to get back into the game and help make a difference.”
Gibson praised Larsen’s clear understanding of the modern game. He also noted his strong knowledge of New Zealand’s domestic structure.
Selection Model to Continue
Gibson confirmed the selection model will stay the same. Larsen will offer insights, share information, and challenge Rob Walter’s plans, but Walter will make the final call.
“While Rob will make the final decisions as the chief selector, we want Gav to prepare him with as much intel as possible, and challenge his thinking and decisions. This requires a strong relationship between the two parties, and we’re confident Gav has the soft skills and the acumen to make it work,” Gibson concluded.
Larsen’s return gives New Zealand Cricket an experienced voice in team selection. His background in management and selection makes him a strong asset for the upcoming season.
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