The former World Test Championship (WTC)-winning New Zealand coach Gary Stead is all set to join the the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) senior men's team for their 2025-26 season. Both parties have signed a year contract, even though both ACA and Stead are willing to extend their tenure. The former Kiwi coach is expected to join the team in late September, as he will fly to Vishakhapatnam. He will be signing in around September 20 to 25. Stead is believed to play an integral role in the team making and is likely to be in the state selection squad. On being appointed as the head coach, Stead said, "The passion for cricket here is palpable. I look forward to working closely with the players, support staff, and leadership to build a team that competes with heart and purpose." Read also: Former Indian Spinner Harbhajan Set to Contend for BCCI Top Position Gary Stead impressed ACA officials in first meet Notably, the ACA officials are looking to form a competitive squad and ACA was exploring some Australian options. Meanwhile, Stead's name came to their note via a reference from a close associate. Stead's first meeting with ACA was impressive for them and they decided to sign the deal. Regarding signing him, ACA secretary, Sana Sathish Babu said, “He came into the first meeting with an in-depth knowledge of our players.” Satish added, “We were initially looking at an Australian coach. Then a friend suggested, why not try Gary? So we reached out to him, and right from the very first conversation, we were struck by his preparedness. He came to the meeting with a complete understanding of our team." Read also: WATCH: Shubman Gill Opens Up on Toughest Bowler and Cheat Meals Gary Stead as coach The 53-year-old former New Zealand top-order batter did not have an extensive batting career. With an average of 34.75 in five Tests, he hung his boots and tried his chance in the coaching. New Zealand's Women's team had signed him as the head coach before he moved to the men's team. In August 2018, Stead got his call for the men's side after their previous coach Mike Hesson, signed out. After the 2019 ODI World Cup defeat to England in a bizarre Super Over, New Zealand head coach Stead was vocal and demanded the ICC to share the World Cup. Stead has served the New Zealand Men's cricket team for an extensive period of Seven years. He resigned in June 2025, and Rob Walters succeeded him in the role. Stead guided the Black Caps in 268 matches, which included the 2021 World Test Championship Final win against India under the leadership of Kane Williamson. He even coached the team to the 2021 T20 World Cup final; however, Australia defeated them by 8 wickets.