🏏 NZC CEO Weenink Steps Down Over T20 Clash

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Key Takeaways

1📊 T20 earnings up 25% for NZ players via overseas leagues
2🏆 Weenink out Jan 30, 2026, over domestic T20 vision rift
3💡 Debate: franchise model vs Super Smash traditions
4🔮 New CEO to shape 2026 T20WC prep and deals
5💬 'Different views on T20 role' - Weenink

"Scott Weenink will step down as NZC CEO on January 30, 2026, after differences over the game's long-term direction, including the role of T20 cricket"

Scott Weenink will step down as New Zealand Cricket CEO on January 30, 2026, amid rifts over T20 priorities and long-term vision. The announcement follows board talks, with differences against member associations and NZCPA on domestic T20 structures. Weenink cited clashing views on T20 cricket's role, prioritizing fresh leadership for Black Caps' future.

Weenink's tenure navigated post-COVID recovery and women's game growth, but T20 debates—global leagues vs domestic—intensified. NZC eyes restructuring like Big Bash models, balancing player workloads amid IPL pulls. This exit echoes past admin upheavals, testing New Zealand's collaborative ethos.

T20 Direction Divides Kiwi Cricket

Key flashpoint: introducing franchise T20 amid Super Smash tweaks. Weenink pushed innovation, but critics fear diluting grassroots—NZCPA wants workload management. Stats show NZ players' T20 earnings up 25% via overseas, straining domestic (avg attendance 5,000). Parallels England's Hundred pivot, blending formats successfully.

Admin Shift Impacts Black Caps

NZC's decisions shape Black Caps' 2026 schedules, including T20WC defense. Succession will influence contracts, women's equity, and broadcasting deals worth NZ$200M. Stability crucial as Williamson era winds down.