Suzie Bates: Why I’m stepping down
Captain steps aside to concentrate on own game and release pressure over selections
Suzie Bates has revealed lingering tension and regular disagreements with White Ferns coach Haidee Tiffen — but it wasn’t the reason for her resignation as skipper.
The 30-year-old sent a shock through New Zealand cricket yesterday, when she announced she would relinquish the role, less than two months out from the World Twenty 20 in the West Indies.
Amy Satterthwaite takes over for the three lead-in matches against Australia, starting September 29.
Bates admitted struggling with the role over the last year. The team’s poor results created tension between the former skipper and Tiffen.
In 2017, the White Ferns exited the World Cup for the first time in 11 editions without making the top four. This year they struggled in T20s and ODIs against England.
“We both took the World Cup result pretty hard,” Bates told Radio Sport. “Haidee and I haven’t always agreed on some selections. That’s been challenging at times with different ideas, and I’ve struggled.
“That’s not the reason I’ve stepped down, but over the years taking the burden of some results and dealings with the pressures of high performance, dropping players and not always getting the team you want is a big part of feeling the way I am.”
Bates said she always felt she had Tiffen’s support on the field, but they had several disagreements around personnel.
“The selectors, not just Haidee, had a clear campaign plan on bringing youngsters through, and I was just fighting to pick our best team,” she said.
Tiffen told Radio Sport they always put their differences behind them.
“Our relationship was about open and honest conversations. At times we were both frustrated at the performances, certainly in England after losing five games in a row.
“There were decisions we had to make on how to win a game. We had different opinions, but always backed each other.”
Tiffen said she hadn’t considered any change to the captaincy, leading into the World T20.
“I was surprised [with Bates’ decision], but it was clear Suzie had thought long and hard about this.
“When I spoke to her it was clear she wanted to concentrate on her game. I totally respect the courage it takes to make such a decision. I know what it’s like to be a captain, it can take a toll.”
Complicating matters, Bates said the findings of the review into the team after last year’s World Cup disappointment had not filtered back to players who took part.
“That [feedback] went to NZC and the board. They put in steps to try to improve the environment, but the players never saw that.
“Whether that’s something that needs to happen in future, that’s for the new captain and coach to decide, but we didn’t see those results,” she said.
Bates was appointed White Ferns captain in December 2011, having made her international debut in March 2006. She led the White Ferns at two World Cups and three World T20 tournaments.
The New Zealand squad begin a four-day camp at Lincoln, near Christchurch, today as they prepare for their tour to Australia at the end of the month.