IPL has helped develop Kiwi players and coaches: NZC chief Geoff Allott
Ahead of India’s tour of New Zealand, NZC CEO Geoff Allott speaks to TOI about hosting the country’s biggest-ever series, record ticket sales, pitches, the IPL’s influence on Kiwi cricket and the enduring bond between the two nations.
New Zealand Cricket chief Geoff Allott expressed his enthusiasm for India's upcoming tour, stating it's a significant moment for the national team. This will be the biggest Indian tour New Zealand has ever hosted, featuring a record amount of cricket in a single series. The quality of opposition and mutual respect between the two nations make it an exciting contest.
Financially, the tour brings major commercial benefits to New Zealand, but it's much more than just money. India is one of the premier teams in world cricket, and their tours generate tremendous excitement among fans, sponsors, and broadcasters. Fan response has been phenomenal, with more than 85,000 tickets already sold for the series.
New Zealand's cricket wickets have improved over the years, making them suitable for high-quality international matches. Allott revealed he's not planning to return to bowling boots anytime soon, but acknowledges the pitches can still offer challenges for bowlers. A dedicated India-New Zealand trophy honoring legends of both countries is something they would consider in the future.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a major platform for New Zealand players and coaches, providing them with opportunities to grow and develop. New Zealand coaches are in high demand globally, and Allott believes this is due to the Kiwis' ability to build relationships, adapt well, and communicate effectively across cultures. Since 2015, New Zealand has reached multiple ICC finals and won the World Test Championship, which can be attributed to their strong culture, leadership, and high-performance system.
While stars like Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, and Tim Southee have been vital to New Zealand's success, Allott believes the team's collective culture is more important than relying on one individual. This personal connection with India is significant for Allott, as he spent 14 years building a food and beverage business in India before his current role.
The tour is particularly special for him due to his strong relationships with the country and its people. Allott expects a competitive series with packed venues, record ticket sales, and a celebration of the relationship between New Zealand and India.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
