Cricket NewsCoaching UpdatesInternational MatchesNew Zealand Cricket NewsT20 World Cup
Jacob Oram Named New Bowling Coach for New Zealand Cricket Team
Jacob Oram Named New Zealand Men’s Cricket Team Bowling Coach
Former New Zealand allrounder Jacob Oram has been named the new bowling coach for the men’s national cricket team. Oram takes over a role left vacant by Shane Jurgensen, who stepped down in November 2023. Officially assuming his duties on October 7, Oram’s appointment marks a permanent move following his interim coaching stints with the team.
Oram was entrusted with the position after his involvement during the New Zealand team’s 1-1 series draw against Bangladesh during their late 2023 Test tour, the 3-0 T20I series loss to Australia in February 2024, and the Men’s T20 World Cup in June 2024, where New Zealand failed to progress beyond the group stages. Oram, now 46, first began his coaching journey in 2014 when he became the bowling coach for New Zealand A. He later took on the same role for the New Zealand Women’s cricket team, guiding them from 2018 through the Women’s ODI World Cup hosted at home in March 2022.
Jacob Oram’s Extensive Coaching Experience
In addition to his work with national teams, Oram has gained experience coaching in various franchise tournaments worldwide. He served as the head coach of the Central Hinds in New Zealand’s Super Smash competition, as an assistant coach for the Northern Warriors in the T10 league, and as the bowling coach for MI Cape Town in the SA20.
Reflecting on his playing career, Oram represented New Zealand in 33 Tests, 160 ODIs, and 36 T20Is over 11 years. Drawing on this vast experience, Oram expressed his enthusiasm about mentoring the next generation of New Zealand bowlers, sharing his knowledge to help them succeed at the international level.
“I’m thrilled to be part of the Black Caps setup again,” Oram said. “It’s an honour to rejoin a team that has meant so much to me throughout my career. The recent opportunities I’ve had with the squad have given me a great sense of where the team is headed, and I’m excited to contribute to that progress in the coming seasons.”
He also noted the promising young talent emerging in the Black Caps’ bowling lineup, stating that he is eager to help prepare these new faces for the demands of international cricket.
Head Coach Gary Stead Welcomes Oram’s Return
Head coach Gary Stead echoed Oram’s enthusiasm, highlighting the value Oram’s coaching experience and successful playing career bring to the team.
“Jacob has been an outstanding addition,” Stead commented. “His career as a player speaks for itself, and his coaching experience—both in international cricket and the franchise circuit—will be a significant asset. He understands the modern game and the evolving needs of today’s players, which will help us as we continue to grow as a team. We’re excited to have him on board full-time.”
Stead emphasized that Oram’s deep understanding of international cricket, combined with his knowledge of the franchise game, will help develop New Zealand’s bowlers and further strengthen the Black Caps.
