Former pacer Gavin Larsen has returned as New Zealand’s selection manager, taking over from Sam Wells. Larsen, who held the position previously between 2015 and 2023, before making his stint as Performance Director at Warwickshire.

The 61-year-old, who most recently worked with basketball side Nelson Giants, will be joining head coach Rob Walter in selecting squads for all New Zealand, New Zealand A and New Zealand Xl 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.”

NZC’s Chief High Performance Officer Daryl Gibson said Gavin Larsen’s experience and understanding of the modern game made him a standout choice.

“Gavin’s familiarity with the role and his understanding of the requirements played an important part in his appointment,” Gibson 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.”

The selection mode will remain unchanged, with Walter retaining final say on selections while working closely with Gavin Larsen. The new selection manager will officially begin his role on November 03.

Daryl Gibson confirmed the selection model would remain unchanged, with the selection manager empowered to brief, advise, collaborate with and challenge the Blackcaps head coach, who would retain ultimate decision-making authority.

“While Rob will make the final decisions as the chief selector, we want Gav preparing him with as much intel as possible, and challenging 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,” concluded NZC chief Daryl Gibson.