Martin Snedden Reflects on Cricket Legacy and Rugby Triumph

Martin Snedden, a prominent figure in both cricket and sports administration, continues to influence the landscape of New Zealand sports long after his playing days. Known for his contributions on the field and in governance, Snedden’s journey spans from a right-arm seamer to a leading sports administrator. His crowning achievement remains his pivotal role as the head of the organizing committee for the 2011 Rugby World Cup, which was held in New Zealand.

Snedden played 25 Tests and 93 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for New Zealand between 1980 and 1990, taking a total of 172 wickets. Following his cricket career, he transitioned into sports governance, serving as chief executive of New Zealand Cricket from 2001 to 2007 and later leading the successful Rugby World Cup effort. Today at age 66, he is deeply involved in non-profit governance and chairs several boards, including Cycling New Zealand and the Heart of the City business association in Auckland.

Current Focus and Governance Efforts

Snedden’s current work primarily revolves around supporting non-profit organizations. He chairs three boards and leads a sports governance learning program for national sporting organizations across New Zealand. Recently, he has been advocating for changes to gambling legislation to secure funding for community sports organizations.

Reflecting on his upbringing, Snedden attributes his early love for cricket to his sports-oriented family. The youngest of five siblings, he was frequently involved in backyard cricket and rugby, developing skills early on through play with his older brothers.

His debut in Test cricket came against India at the Basin Reserve in 1981, where he recalls a memorable moment when he nearly took his first wicket on the first ball after tea. Despite a rocky start, Snedden found his footing in international cricket, often bowling alongside legendary fast bowler Sir Richard Hadlee. He praised Hadlee’s consistency and ability to intimidate even the best batsmen of the era.

Memorable Matches and Challenges

Among his fondest memories is the thrilling 1987 Test match against the West Indies at Lancaster Park, where he took five wickets, including that of the great Viv Richards. This performance not only secured victory for New Zealand but also solidified his place in the team.

Snedden also reflected on the infamous underarm incident during a match against Australia in 1981. He noted that the unexpected nature of the situation left little room for immediate reaction, but the event became a lasting point of discussion in cricket history, often giving New Zealanders a sense of moral superiority in their rivalry with Australia.

As chief executive of New Zealand Cricket, Snedden faced significant challenges, particularly in rebuilding relationships following the 2002 player strike. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the cricket administration and the Players’ Association in fostering a strong cricketing environment.

The 2011 Rugby World Cup remains a highlight of Snedden’s career. He expressed the immense pressure felt by the organizing team, understanding that the stakes were high for both the reputation of New Zealand and their own careers. The successful execution of the tournament not only thrilled fans but also showcased New Zealand’s ability to host major international events, solidifying his legacy in sports administration.

Looking at the current state of international cricket, Snedden expressed concerns about the oversaturation of the game and the lack of meaningful series. He criticized the International Cricket Council for not addressing these issues, stating that the quality of international play has suffered as a result. While he acknowledges the financial benefits of T20 cricket for players, he believes it undermines the integrity of the game when star players prioritize league contracts over national representation.

Martin Snedden’s journey from cricket player to sports administrator illustrates his enduring influence on New Zealand sports. His reflections provide valuable insight into the evolution of cricket and rugby, as well as the challenges and successes faced in the world of sports governance.