New Zealand Cricket appoints first female chair
In a significant milestone for New Zealand Cricket (NZC), Diana Puketapu-Lyndon is set to become the first female chair of the organisation. The historic development comes as Martin Snedden announced his early departure to ensure a seamless transition into the role for Puketapu-Lyndon.
Puketapu-Lyndon’s impressive credentials include her current position as the chair of the New Zealand Olympic Committee, as well as her past role as chief financial officer for two America’s Cup campaigns.
The transition underscores the growing involvement of women in leadership positions within the world of sports. Puketapu-Lyndon’s appointment to the chair role is a testament to the expanding role of women in sports governance, where their expertise and leadership are increasingly recognised and valued.
Snedden, who still has a year left as a director on the NZC board, also shared his plans to step down as New Zealand’s representative on the International Cricket Council (ICC). In his place, board member and fellow former New Zealand international cricketer Roger Twose will assume this crucial role, contributing to the international cricket community.
These announcements were made during the annual general meeting of NZC, where the governing body reported a surplus of NZ$10.7 million ($6.35 million) at the conclusion of the last financial year.
The changing of the guard in leadership roles, coupled with a strong financial performance, signals a promising future for New Zealand Cricket. It also highlights the growing trend of promoting diversity and inclusivity in sports governance, paving the way for more women to play significant roles in the sports industry.
📢 HISTORY
Diana Puketapu-Lyndon will become the first woman Chair of New Zealand Cricket (NZC) when she replaces Martin Snedden.
Puketapu-Lyndon is currently the Deputy Chair and also the Chair of New Zealand Olympic Committee.#CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/2zVNmjpoy9
— Women’s CricZone (@WomensCricZone) November 8, 2023
