Selection panel structure outlined

The TelstraClear Black Caps national selection panel will have a new structure from December 1 this year, New Zealand Cricket chief executive Martin Snedden announced today.

There will be two significant changes to the structure of the panel:

Sir Richard Hadlee has accepted the position of TelstraClear Black Caps selection manager.

In the interim, between now and December 1, the TelstraClear Black Caps national selection panel will consist of:

The interim panel will be responsible for selection of the squads to tour India and Pakistan between September and November. The interim panel in the course of their deliberations will consult with John Bracewell and Stephen Fleming.

"Ultimately the structure being introduced is consistent with the structure that has been introduced for the team's management," Snedden said.

"Under that system, the TelstraClear Black Caps coach is responsible and accountable for all cricket related functions within the TelstraClear Black Caps unit. It therefore follows that the coach should have the authority to ultimately determine which players are selected for the TelstraClear Black Caps."

"The changes to the panel's structure are not a reflection on Sir Richard but address the need for the coach to have ultimate responsibility for the performance of the team."

"Sir Richard has made a significant contribution to New Zealand Cricket as chairman of selectors. His experience as a selector and abilities as a manager will be key to the success of the restructured panel.

"I am pleased that Sir Richard has agreed to stay on as selection manager. He will bring needed continuity to the selection panel and will continue to be an asset to New Zealand Cricket," Snedden said.

The new selection panel will also consist of four members. They are TelstraClear Black Caps selection manager Sir Richard Hadlee, TelstraClear Black Caps coach John Bracewell and the two selectors to be appointed by August 8.