Source: Radio New Zealand
Heath Mills speaking to media at a press conference. RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
New Zealand Cricket Players Association chief executive Heath Mills is stepping down after more than two decades in the role.
The NZCPA said Mills had played a huge role in shaping the modern landscape for professional cricketers in New Zealand and internationally, as well as being a strong advocate for the growth and professionalisation of the women’s game.
Mills, who has led the NZCPA since 2001, will remain in the job until June.
He said the decision to step down had been a difficult one, but that the time felt right for both himself and the organisation.
“The NZCPA has been a huge part of my life for more than 25 years, and the experiences, opportunities, challenges and relationships along the way have shaped me profoundly,” Mills said.
“I’ve been incredibly fortunate that the game’s best players have trusted me to serve them in this role. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has allowed me to represent and support them, and I hope I’ve been able to contribute in a way that justifies that trust.”
A bid by a consortium of high profile cricket figures, pulled together by Mills, to launch a T20 competition became a flashpoint late last year.
It culminated in the resignation of NZ Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink days before Christmas.
The NZCPA and all six Major Associations strongly supported the bid, which is still being considered, while Weenink was accused of undermining the proposal in favour of alternative options.
Former NZ Cricket CEO Scott Weenink. © Photosport Ltd 2024 www.photosport.nz
Mills will continue to work closely within the global cricket landscape through his position as Executive Chairman of the World Cricketers’ Association.
He will also remain involved with the NZCPA in a project management capacity over the next 18 months, helping oversee negotiations for the next Master Agreement with New Zealand Cricket and the six Major Associations.
NZCPA chairperson Ross Verry paid tribute to Mills’ leadership and influence on the organisation and the wider game.
“Heath has been one of the most knowledgeable, progressive and influential leaders in New Zealand sport over the past two decades, and his impact has been felt across the global game,” Verry said.
“More importantly, he has always been absolutely committed to the members of the NZCPA. Heath has consistently had the players’ backs – past and present – and has represented them with loyalty, integrity and a deep sense of purpose.”
Verry said Mills had led significant innovation within the players’ association movement while navigating a constantly evolving cricket landscape.
“Under Heath’s leadership the NZCPA has become an organisation that players around the world look to as a benchmark. Initiatives like the Personal Development Programme, the Retirement Fund, the Cricketers’ Hardship Trust and the Cricket Players’ Property Trust have created opportunities and security for players long after their playing careers end.
“He has also been a passionate supporter of the women’s game and played a key role in the progress that has enabled more women to pursue cricket as a profession in New Zealand.”
The NZCPA board would begin a process to appoint Mills’ successor in the coming weeks.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
