Cricket Wellington confirms that Joe Austin-Smellie will conclude his role as Performance Coach for the Firebirds as he relocates to Auckland to pursue a pathway into medicine.

A former Wellington Firebird, Austin-Smellie returned to the organisation at the beginning of the 2024/25 season, initially contributing to the Wellington Provincial A programme across both the men’s and women’s environments. He later joined the Wellington Blaze coaching group as Assistant Coach ahead of the 2024/25 Super Smash campaign, working alongside Head Coach Jonny Bassett-Graham. The partnership made an immediate impact, guiding the Blaze to the Super Smash title that season.

Prior to the 2025/26 season, and following a staff restructure, Austin-Smellie was appointed as one of Cricket Wellington’s Performance Coaches, working across both the Wellington Firebirds and Wellington Blaze programmes. Throughout the current season, he has predominantly worked with the Firebirds while periodically providing support within the Blaze environment.

Austin-Smellie has played an important role in strengthening the high performance environment across both programmes, and his contribution over the past two seasons has been highly valued.

Head of High Performance Dave Wildash said Austin-Smellie’s impact had been felt across the entire programme.

“Joe has been outstanding over the past two seasons. His athlete-centred approach and infectious energy have helped create an environment where players can genuinely thrive and develop. He combines a deep understanding of both the science and the art of coaching, with an ability to practically deliver multiple skill areas at the highest level.

“We’ll certainly miss having Joe in our environment, but we’re incredibly grateful for his contribution and wish him every success as he embarks on this exciting new chapter as he works towards a career in medicine.”

Wellington Firebirds Head Coach Shane Jurgenson echoed those sentiments.

“Joe had a profound impact on the group. His energy, coaching expertise, and genuine passion for Wellington cricket have left a lasting legacy within the Firebirds environment.”

Chief Executive Todd Bryant said Joe’s influence extended across both programmes.

“Joe has made a fantastic contribution to our high performance environment, and his impact has been felt across both the Firebirds and Blaze. We’re grateful for everything he’s brought to the group and fully support his move into medicine. He leaves with our thanks and best wishes for the future.”

Wellington Blaze Head Coach Jonny Bassett-Graham said working alongside Austin-Smellie had been a highlight.

“Working alongside Joe has been a real highlight. He brings a huge amount of knowledge and skill with his coaching, but above all his energy and personality connects with everyone he’s worked with. His ability to make genuine relationships is a real strength. He’ll leave big shoes to fill within both environments.”

Relocating to Auckland to pursue a medical career, Austin-Smellie will not be lost to the cricket community and intends to continue contributing in a different capacity as he undertakes further study with the goal of entering medical school.

Reflecting on his time in Wellington, Austin-Smellie said:

“Wellington Cricket has been a huge part of my journey. To have represented Wellington as a player, and later serve as Assistant Coach for both the Blaze and the Firebirds, has been a privilege. I’m incredibly grateful to the players, staff and wider community who trusted me to play a part in their journey also. I’ll always value my time here and will miss being a part of the environment.”

Cricket Wellington thanks Joe for his commitment and contribution to the organisation and wishes him every success as he embarks on this next chapter.

Article added: Wednesday 25 February 2026