Central Districts Cricket joins with New Zealand Cricket and our community in mourning the passing of former first-class cricketer, BLACKCAPS Team Manager and NZC administrator, Lindsay Crocker.

Crocker — or simply “Crocks” as he was known in the cricketing world, represented Northern Districts in the 1980s, before becoming Chief Executive of Auckland Cricket from 1996 to 2003.

In Auckland, he transitioned the organisation’s administration and constitution to a modern model that is now emulated throughout the country, with the introduction of an independent board of directors.

Celebrating a record ODI win in 2005 with Brendon McCullum

PHOTOSPORT

He then served as NZC’s first full-time BLACKCAPS team manager, another transformative role that he held until 2009 when he became NZC’s Head of Cricket Operations, which became a seven-year innings.

Central Districts Chief Executive Lance Hamilton said Crocker’s contribution to the game, its people and players stretched far beyond the borders of ND and Auckland, with his caring and astute personality always to the fore.

“Personally I first came across Lindsay when I got called in to play for the BLACKCAPS in 2005. He was Manager of the team at that stage and picked me up from the airport in Wellington. He took me to the team hotel and made sure I was settled in, as I was the last to arrive — all of which for a debutant was reassuring. 

Crocker, second from left, was Team Manager for the BLACKCAPS at the world's first ever T20 International match | PHOTOSPORT

“Later on in my own management career, I was lucky enough to go on quite a few NZ A tours as the team manager, and I reported directly back to Lindsay who was Head of Operations for NZC at the time. 

“One thing about Crocks was that you always knew where you stood with him and, even if he may have been disappointed in how something had played out, you still got the sense that he really did believe in you and back you in your role. 

“Over the course of his career he had a major impact on cricket, and he will be fondly remembered for many years to come for those influences. 

“At only 64 years old, his passing is a real reminder to all of us to make the most of each day, and cherish all of our moments with those that are close to us.”

At this sad time all the team at Central Districts Cricket would like to offer our sincerest condolences to Crocker’s family, friends and colleagues over the years at Northern Districts, Auckland Cricket and New Zealand Cricket.