Cricket Wellington Media Release
Tuesday 8 February 2011

Last season for Stuart at helm of Firebirds

Cricket Wellington will not be renewing the contract of Wellington Firebirds Head Coach Anthony Stuart at the end of the 2010/11 season.

Stuart will remain as Head Coach for the remainder of the Plunket Shield competition, ending on 6 April.

The 41-year-old former Australian opening bowler will leave after five seasons in charge, after taking over from Vaughn Johnson at the start of the 2006/07 season.

Cricket Wellington CEO Gavin Larsen said the time had arrived when a Head Coach change was required.

“Unfortunately it’s been another poor season for our flagship team, and Anthony and I have met and we agreed that it is time for a coaching re-structure around the Firebirds,” Larsen said. “Anthony was accepting of the need for change, and acknowledged that a change in chemistry is required in and around the Firebirds as we continue to search for a winning formula.”

Larsen praised Stuart’s contribution to cricket in Wellington:

“Coaching a professional sports team is an incredibly demanding job and I could not have asked for more from Anthony in terms of his commitment and dedication. Anthony is an outstanding person in all respects, and I’m sure his coaching future will be a positive and successful one.

“Anthony’s been an integral part of our Cricket Wellington team, and whilst we’ll all be sad to lose him, it’s also a great opportunity for Anthony to open a new chapter in his coaching career and to coach in a new and fresh environment.”

Stuart said that he was fully understanding of the decision.

“Like everyone who follows the Firebirds, I’m extremely disappointed with the team’s playing record. I’ve given my all to the Firebirds but when this season ends it’s time to step aside and give someone else the opportunity to turn around the Firebirds fortunes.

“Having said that though, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here and appreciate the opportunity and support that Gavin and Cricket Wellington have provided. I also wish to thank all the team support staff and captains that I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with during the last five seasons.

“I look forward to watching the careers of some of the younger guys unfold and wish all the players involved with the squad the very best for the future”.

Stuart also said that he is looking forward to his final seven matches in charge with the Firebirds.

“I love working with these guys, and with 56 points still on offer, it’s important that we stay strong and play with real intent. If we can pull off a couple of early wins then we’ll be right in the mix for the Plunket Shield.”

Cricket Wellington will begin a process for securing a new Head Coach in the near future.

ENDS

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