Greg Shipperd Extends Coaching Tenure with NSW and Sixers
Veteran Coach Commits to Developing NSW’s Young Squad
The 68-year-old stalwart of Australian coaching, Greg Shipperd, has committed to guiding a young New South Wales side back to the top of the Sheffield Shield after signing a two-year contract extension.
Dual Role with NSW and Sydney Sixers
Shipperd, widely regarded as a doyen of Australian domestic coaching, will continue his dual role with NSW and the Sydney Sixers in the BBL. His coaching influence extends far beyond state and franchise cricket, having mentored numerous Australian players and coaches, including current national men’s coach Andrew McDonald.
Proven Success Across States
Shipperd’s coaching pedigree includes successful stints with Tasmania and Victoria, where he secured four Sheffield Shield titles. He initially took charge of NSW in a caretaker capacity during the 2022-23 season while maintaining his Sixers role, which he has held since 2015. He was appointed full-time head coach in May 2023, and this new deal will see him lead NSW for four years and the Sixers for 12.
Shipperd’s Reflections on Coaching
“You have to be careful not to overstay your welcome,” Shipperd told ESPNcricinfo. “But I’m particularly thrilled to be involved with Cricket New South Wales. It’s steeped in history and high expectations, and I like operating within that framework. With an emerging group of players, we have the chance to build a foundation that can endure.”
He acknowledged the physical challenges of his age but credited his support staff for keeping the Blues competitive. “The mind still is going at 100 miles an hour, but the body’s slowing down. Thankfully, the system behind NSW cricket is first-class.”
Sixers’ Remarkable Consistency
Shipperd’s tenure with the Sixers has been outstanding. The club has not finished lower than third in the past six seasons, placing in the top two for the last five. During that span, they claimed two BBL titles and finished runners-up twice, underlining their ability to keep teams consistently at the top.
Unfinished Business with NSW
While the Sixers continue to thrive, Shipperd’s challenge with NSW remains unfinished. When he took charge, the Blues had finished last in 2022-23 for the first time in 13 seasons. Under his guidance, NSW have since placed third and fourth in consecutive Shield campaigns, remaining contenders until the final rounds. They also lost the Dean Jones Trophy final in 2023-24 to Western Australia and narrowly missed the final last year.
Building for the Next Step
“Progress is being made,” Shipperd said. “We had challenges with squad depth and Australian player absences—losing key figures like Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, and Tanveer Sangha. To still be competing for finals spots in both competitions was very pleasing. The next step is to win those crunch games more often, especially at the back end of the season.”