Diana Puketapu-Lyndon set to become first woman chairperson of New Zealand Cricket as Martin Snedden steps down

Diana Puketapu-Lyndon is going to enter the history books as she is set to become the first female chairperson of New Zealand Cricket (NZC), replacing the experienced Martin Snedden.

Snedden, a former chief executive of NZC, has served three terms as the director on its board. He has stepped down as the director with another year still left on his contract. Hence, Snedden believes in good governance by giving ample space in the leadership role which will allow Puketapu-Lyndon a smooth transition into the job.

"I've taken the decision to step down from the role of Board chair, as well as NZC's representative on the ICC Board. Both these decisions have been taken in the name of ensuring good, sound governance succession planning, as well as taking advantage of what is an excellent opportunity for a leadership refresh," Snedden was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Diana Puketapu-Lyndon carries Olympics experience, Roger Twose to be NZ's ICC representative 

Diana Puketapu-Lyndon has been associated with the development of sports for a long time. She is the chairperson of the New Zealand Olympic Committee and was chief financial officer on two America's Cup sailing campaigns, and one as a Director of the World Masters Games. In 2017, she was roped in by the NZC for the first time and is currently the second-longest serving director.

Snedden also announced that Roger Twose, who is also a former international cricketer and a board member, will replace him as New Zealand's representative on the ICC.

"My final term as an NZC director will expire at the 2024 AGM. This will allow time for a considered hand-over and will enable me to continue lending my support, when and if required, to Diana and Roger over the next 12 months. I have no doubt that this will continue under Diana's and Roger's leadership," the 64-year-old Snedden said.

At the AGM, it was announced that NZC ended the year in a "buoyant financial position", with a surplus of $10.7m. Maia Lewis, Amy Satterthwaite, and Ross Taylor were elected as life members of the New Zealand Cricket. Kirsty Bond, Katrina Kennan, Mark Greatbatch, Chris Harris, and Mike Hesson were chosen as honourary members.

Meanwhile, speaking of the NZ cricket team, they will be locking horns with Sri Lanka in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, for a last available semi-final berth. It will be interesting to see if the Kiwis can hold their nerves to make it to the knockout stage or they will be left in a cliffhanger situation in the points table, if they fail to win the encounter on Thursday, November 9, in Bengaluru.

Also Check: ODI World Cup 2023 Points Table