Former Black Caps Coach David Trist Dies Aged 77

David Trist, a former New Zealand cricket (NZC) coach and Canterbury pace bowler, has passed away at the age of 77. 

In a statement, New Zealand Cricket said: “NZC is deeply saddened to confirm the passing of former Black Caps coach David Trist, who died in Christchurch yesterday."

Born on September 1947, Trist enjoyed a notable domestic career, appearing in 24 first-class matches for Canterbury between the 1968 - 1969 and 1977 - 1978 seasons. Following his retirement from playing, he transitioned into coaching. 

His international coaching journey began with South Africa’s Eastern Province, whom he led to victory in the Currie Cup in 1989. He later coached the Hong Kong national team at the 1997 ICC Trophy and held coaching roles in the Netherlands and with Auckland.

In 1999, he succeeded Steve Rixon as head coach of the New Zealand men's national team. His first assignment was a Test series in India, which New Zealand lost 1-0. However, his tenure reached a high point in 2000 when the Black Caps secured the ICC Champions Trophy, marking one of the country's most significant cricket achievements.

After leaving the New Zealand role, Trist became the coaching director of Christchurch’s Old Collegians Cricket Club, as well as working in India and England.

"A former Canterbury and New Zealand pace bowler, David coached the Black Caps from 1999 to 2001, during which time they won the ICC Champions Trophy in Nairobi. NZC extends its heartfelt condolences to David’s family and friends," NZC said in the statement.