Ryan Cook steps down as Netherlands men’s team head coach

Ryan Cook steps down as Netherlands men's team head coach

Ryan Cook has stepped down as head coach of the Netherlands men's team with immediate effect. Heino Kuhn, the team's batting coach, will take over on an interim basis. The KNCB confirmed the decision follows the recent arrival of Cook's second child.

Cook had held the role since May 2022, overseeing a period of significant achievement:

• Led Netherlands to the T20 World Cup in Australia, where they beat South Africa and Zimbabwe and reached the Super 12
• Secured direct qualification for the 2024 T20 World Cup
• In ODIs, defeated West Indies, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Scotland in 2023
• Guided Netherlands to their first ODI World Cup since 2011, where they beat South Africa and Bangladesh
• At the 2024 T20 World Cup, beat Namibia and showed grit against hosts India
• Netherlands currently sit third in CWC League 2, with a pathway to the 2027 ODI World Cup

"Coaching the Dutch men's team has been one of the highlights of my coaching career," Cook said. "It's been a pleasure to lead the journey towards professionalism and create a competitive team with strong values."

Captain Scott Edwards praised Cook's impact: "Ryan has been instrumental in the growth of this team and Dutch cricket over the past four years. His passion and commitment have helped us achieve memorable performances and set this team up for future success."

KNCB CEO Huib van Walsem added: "Ryan has had an enormous impact on Dutch cricket, building player depth, team culture, coaching development, and grassroots contributions. We are grateful for his wonderful efforts."