Implementation of gender quota requirements by local associations in New Zealand cricket

Abstract

Purpose/rationale: To examine the implementation of a gender quota requirement for boards, introduced by Sport NZ in 2018, on local cricket governance in New Zealand. Design/methodology/approach: An open-ended qualitative survey to local board members, face-to-face interviews with management and key stakeholders, and examination of organisational documentation. Findings: The study confirmed that the male-dominated boards did not know how to source female members but showed that the gender quota requirement was effective since boards all described making changes to reach the quota requirement. Professionalisation of the boards was also improved. Practical implications: Quotas do work in creating change but ideally should also be implemented with more assistance about how to make change and provide platforms for associations to share knowledge about their processes. Research contribution: Strongly entrenched male sports cultures can be disrupted and improved through top-down externally driven policies. Originality/value: The implementation of gender quota requirements results in increased professionalisation of boards.