Name:

Wright, John G

Date of Birth:

05 Jul 1954

Gender:

Men

Place of Birth:

Darfield

Career:

Test: 1978 - 1993
ODI: 1978 - 1992

Teams:

New Zealand (Country)

1979 World Cup: Narrow win puts England into final

John Geoffrey Wright (born 5 July 1954) is one of New Zealand’s most influential captains, celebrated for his achievements as a dependable opening batter and later as one of the game’s most respected coaches.

Born in Canterbury, Wright made his international debut in 1978 and became the first New Zealander to score more than 5,000 Test runs. During an outstanding playing career, he featured in 82 Tests and 149 One-Day Internationals, scoring 12 Test centuries while captaining New Zealand in the late 1980s. He also enjoyed a prolific county career with Derbyshire, accumulating more than 25,000 first-class runs.

Following his retirement from international cricket in 1993, Wright established himself as an outstanding coach. In 2000, he became the first overseas coach of India’s men’s cricket team, helping transform the side into a consistent world force.

Under his guidance, India shared the 2002 ICC Champions Trophy and reached the final of the 2003 Cricket World Cup. Wright later coached New Zealand from 2010 to 2012 before joining the Mumbai Indians, where his keen eye for talent helped identify future pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.

Respected for his calm demeanour, tactical acumen and player-first philosophy, Wright is widely regarded as one of the architects of India’s modern cricketing culture. His influence has extended well beyond coaching, with continued roles as a mentor, scout and cricket advisor.

Away from the game, Wright enjoys farming and music at his home near Christchurch