Allrounder Michael Bracewell has become the latest Black Cap to relinquish his New Zealand Cricket central contract as he pursues an opportunity in the Australian Big Bash.
A statement from NZC said the 35-year-old will take up a casual contract to free up possibilities in T20 franchise leagues – a trend that began in 2022 when seamer Trent Boult became the first high-profile player to do so.
Bracewell – who has captained New Zealand 13 times – joins a growing list of current players in making the move, including Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen.
Former captain Kane Williamson also declined a central
Former captain Kane Williamson also declined a central contract for the 2024-25 season, ahead of his international retirement this year.
Bracewell said NZC had supported his move.
“The backing from New Zealand Cricket for me to take this opportunity at this stage of my career means a lot,” said Bracewell, who is in the 16-man squad for the looming home T20 series against India.
“As a white-ball only player, this felt like too good of an opportunity to pass up. I’m still very much committed to the Black Caps and can’t wait to be involved in the upcoming India tour and future white-ball series.
I’ve also got my eyes firmly fixed
“I’ve also got my eyes firmly fixed on the opportunity to be involved in the inaugural NZ20 which is set to be introduced from next summer.”
Bracewell will be replaced on the central contract list by Northern Districts batsman and former Wellington captain Nick Kelly.
It will be a first such contract for 33-year-old Kelly, a first-class player of 11 years who made his international debut last year.
New Zealand coach Rob Walter, who coached Kelly
New Zealand coach Rob Walter, who coached Kelly for two seasons at Otago, said the promotion was deserved.
“Nick’s been a standout performer in domestic cricket for several seasons now and it’s testament to his hard work that he’s earned this first contract at this stage of his career,” he said.
“Introducing players like Nick to international cricket a bit later certainly has its advantages in terms of the player knowing their game and being able to trust themselves to perform under pressure.”
Source: www.rnz.co.nz
