Volts coach staying on another two years
OTAGO coach Rob Walter will remain at the reins for another two years.
The 45yearold has had his contract extended through until April 2023.
The South African born coach initially joined the Volts on a twoyear contract in 2016.
That contract has been renewed several times and yesterday Otago Cricket Association chief executive Mike Coggan announced Walter would be staying put for a sixth and seventh season.
Coggan said the decision was made following a promising 2019–20 season.
Otago was the only team to finish in the top three of all the domestic formats. It made the oneday final for a second consecutive year and hosted the Super Smash elimination final, having played some terrific twenty20 cricket.
“Rob is a quality guy and a quality coach, and we are excited to retain his expertise for a further two seasons,’’ Coggan said.
‘‘We went through a lengthy review process involving players, New Zealand Cricket performance staff and the New Zealand
Cricket Players Association.
‘‘There was universal support for Rob and the manner in which he leads our professional men’s environment.’’
Coggan added Walter’s reappointment would provide continuity and assurance to players.
Walter was grateful to have the support of both Otago Cricket staff and the playing group.
“I really have loved the challenge so far and it has been wonderful to see the growth in our players over the last couple of years,’’ Walter said.
‘‘We are working tirelessly to ensure that we continue to develop and improve each day.
‘‘Having the backing of the major stakeholders, specifically the players, is hugely important to me and I will continue to strive to create the best environment for them to play their cricket in.’’
While delighted with the extension, Walter has some unfinished business — delivering a title for the province.
“We are in the business of highperformance sport, and winning trophies is ultimately what we are pushing for.
‘‘Alongside that, though, we want to develop players who will represent their country with distinction and, most importantly, we want to keep pushing to play a brand of cricket that the people of Otago can be proud of.”