Stephen Fleming is a former New Zealand cricketer, widely considered one of the country’s greatest batsmen and captains. Born in Christchurch, Fleming played for the Blackcaps from 1994 to 2008.
He is best known for his calm leadership and tactical acumen, serving as captain for over a decade and guiding the team through significant challenges. As a left-handed batsman, Fleming scored over 7,000 runs in both Test and One Day International formats, with a reputation for consistency and elegance at the crease.
Under his captaincy, New Zealand reached new heights in international cricket, including their first-ever appearance in a Cricket World Cup final in 2007. After retiring from international cricket, Fleming has a successful career in coaching and commentary.
- Where is your home golf club? Clearwater Golf Club in Christchurch
- What’s your current handicap? 9
- What’s the best your handicap has been? 7ish
- Golfing highlight: Getting to play as an amateur in the last round of the New Zealand Open… an unbelievable experience.
- Your favourite course in New Zealand? Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary in Taupo
- How has your golf been since the last New Zealand Open? Very patchy and unloved
- What is the New Zealand Open experience like? Without a doubt one of my favourite weeks of the year. The chance to play and watch some of the best golfers around is brilliant. The atmosphere around the whole week is superb and the event is run so well that even if your golf is under whelming, you will still have a great time.
- What is it like playing alongside a professional? Always daunting, but the pros are excellent at making you relax and feel part of it. Very unique that you can experience being inside the ropes at such a prestigious event.