Andhra Pradesh Signs WTC-Winning Coach Gary Stead Ahead of 2025-26 Season

In a major move, the Andhra Pradesh Cricket Association (ACA) has roped in Gary Stead as the head coach for the 2025-26 season. Stead famously led New Zealand to victory in the 2021 World Test Championship final against India.

Andhra Pradesh have struggled in domestic cricket recently, finishing sixth in Ranji Trophy Elite Group B last season with just one win. They also placed fourth in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and lost to Uttar Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy quarter-final.

Stead’s Arrival Signals Big Ambitions

ACA President Kesineni Sivnath welcomed Stead, calling him “not just a coach but a culture-builder.” He added that Stead’s mentorship would boost talent development, tactical planning, and operational discipline within the team.

Stead, who coached New Zealand for seven years, also led the Kiwis to the 2019 World Cup final. Under him, New Zealand reached the number one ranking in both ODIs and Tests before he stepped down earlier this year.

“I’m honoured to join the Andhra Cricket Association as Head Coach. The passion for cricket here is palpable, and ACA’s commitment to development resonates deeply with me. I look forward to building a team that competes with heart and purpose,” Stead said in an official statement.

Foreign Coaches in Indian Domestic Cricket

Andhra are not the first domestic side to hire foreign coaches. Michael Bevan coached Odisha, Lance Klusener was with Tripura, and Dav Whatmore worked with Kerala and Baroda. Shaun Williams and Dermot Reeve have also helmed Maharashtra at different times.

ACA Secretary Sana Satheesh Babu called Stead’s appointment “a new chapter in Andhra cricket” and praised his global experience and values. “We warmly welcome him and look forward to a transformative season ahead,” she said.