Lance Dry Exits Wellington Blaze, Transitions to Men’s Performance Role

Lance Dry has announced his decision to step down as Head Coach of the Wellington Blaze after three and a half successful seasons.

He will transition to a new role as Men’s Coach – Performance and Pathways at Cricket Wellington. Dry has previously been involved with the men’s setup as Firebirds Assistant Coach for two seasons, Firebirds Interim Head Coach last season and is currently providing specialist spin bowling coaching with the Firebirds.

This role will expand to include supporting Cricket Wellington's pathway teams, further strengthening the development of emerging talent.

Cricket Wellington’s Chief Executive Officer Todd Bryant thanked Lance, stating:

“Lance has been a great leader, driving the Blaze to incredible success. We are thankful for his contributions, and I fully support his decision to step away from the Blaze at this time.”

Reflecting on his time with the Blaze, Lance said:

“It’s with a great deal of satisfaction and a tinge of sadness that I step down."

"The team is in a great place but needs a new voice and new ideas to reach the next level."

Over three and a half fantastic seasons, we made all six finals across the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield and Dream 11 Super Smash, winning two Super Smash titles and Wellington’s first outright Hallyburton Johnstone Shield”, he said.

“I’m excited for a break with family this Christmas before returning to the men’s game. My time leading the Firebirds during the Plunket Shield at the start of last season reminded me of the unique challenges and excitement of men’s cricket.

I’m grateful for the chance to continue to contribute to the Firebirds, Provincial As, and Development players in the months ahead.”, said Dry.

“Thank you to the players, staff, and especially Woody for his humour and coaching skill over the last three and a half seasons. I wish Melie and the team all the best for the upcoming Super Smash”.

Blaze captain Melie Kerr reflected on her time working with Dry in the Blaze setup:

“I have absolutely loved working with Lance over the last three and a half years. I am gutted to see him go after what has been such a successful run for him as head coach.

Personally, he has helped to develop my game, and especially my tactical knowledge as a captain. I wish him all the best for what is next and know that he will be a cricketing brain that I will always be able to tap into for help in my career”, she said.

Cricket Wellington is actively seeking a new Head Coach to lead the Blaze for the upcoming Super Smash season. An announcement on the coaching staff will follow soon.

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List of Achievements

2021/22

Super Smash Winners (Qualified 1st then defeated Otago Sparks in Final)

Runner Up in Hallyburton Johnston Shield (Qualified 1st  then lost to Otago Sparks in Final)

Wellington Blaze – Winners of Sport Wellington Team of the Year

Lance Dry – Winner of Sport Wellington Coach of the Year

2022/23

Super Smash Runners Up (Qualified 1st then lost to Canterbury Magicians in Final)

Hallyburton Johnston Shield Winners (Qualified 1st  then defeated Canterbury Magicians in Final)

Wellington Blaze set National Record with 18 Consecutive Super Smash wins.

2023/24

Super Smash Winners (Qualified 1st then defeated Central Hinds in Final)

Runner Up in Hallyburton Johnston Shield (Qualified 2nd  then lost to Otago Sparks in Final)