Rugby: Taranaki CEO moves back to cricket

Taranaki Rugby

Taranaki Rugby CEO Mike Sandle is set to depart the organisation at the end of the current domestic rugby season.

Sandle will take up the position of Performance Manager with the Black Caps at New Zealand Cricket.

Since joining the Taranaki Rugby Football Union (TRFU) in 2022, Sandle has overseen the Yarrows Taranaki Bulls victorious 2023 NPC campaign, as well as strong growth in playing numbers in women’s rugby at all levels.

He has also been instrumental in taking Taranaki games around the region, including a pre-season game in Manaia last year to celebrate Yarrows the Bakers’ 100 years in business, and the Firstgas Urenui Showdown against Bay of Plenty last month.

“I started my sport management career at Taranaki Rugby in 2001, and after spending time away, it’s been an honour to return and be part of such a fantastic team,” he said.

“The people and staff at the TRFU are remarkable. They have been a key part of the success we’ve experienced on and off the field in the last few years, and I’m extremely grateful to have had the support of a fantastic board.”

Sandle is well familiar with the cricket environment, having been team manager of the Black Caps between 2011 and 2022.

“The opportunity to work with coach Gary Stead again and help our top cricketers across all three forms of the game was just too good to turn down,” Sandle said.

“Mike has been a consummate professional and an outstanding leader for Taranaki rugby. I’m extremely sad to see him go but he leaves the Union in the best shape it’s been for a very long time,” said TRFU chair Dan Radcliffe.

“Taranaki Rugby has benefited immensely from Mike’s leadership and ability to create a strong organisational culture over the last three years. He leaves behind a legacy which includes strong growth in playing numbers across the region, an NPC Championship and a very healthy balance sheet. “New Zealand Cricket is getting a huge asset in Mike, and we wish him and Michelle all the very best.”

The process to appoint a new CEO will commence immediately.