Christchurch, October 5 (Daily Kiran) : Experienced New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has chosen to take a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket for the 2026-27 season. This decision allows him to participate in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) while remaining available for T20 leagues worldwide. Despite this shift, Bracewell emphasized that his primary commitment is still to the national team.
At 35, Bracewell joins a list of players who have opted for casual contracts, including Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, and Tim Seifert. Following Bracewell’s departure from his central contract, batsman Nick Kelly has been awarded his first central contract, marking a significant milestone in his career after nearly 11 years since his first-class debut. The 33-year-old left-handed batsman earned this achievement through consistent performances in domestic cricket.
Bracewell expressed that this opportunity is crucial at this stage of his career. He thanked New Zealand Cricket for their support regarding his decision, stating that it would not be wise to pass up the chance to play in the BBL since he focuses solely on white-ball cricket.
He also made it clear that he remains fully dedicated to the New Zealand team. Bracewell is looking forward to participating in the upcoming five-match T20 International series against India at the end of this month. Additionally, he has expressed interest in competing in the new NZ20 tournament starting next year.
On the other hand, Nick Kelly’s achievement is noteworthy. He made his international debut for New Zealand in March 2025 and has since played eight One Day Internationals and seven T20 matches, even captaining the team in two T20s during a tour of Bangladesh when regular captain Tom Latham was injured.
Recently, Kelly returned from playing county cricket for Leicestershire in England, where he scored a total of 950 runs across all formats, including a century in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup final against Middlesex. New Zealand’s head coach, Rob Walter, expressed his delight at Kelly receiving his first central contract, acknowledging his consistent performance in domestic cricket as a deserving reward.
Walter noted that players who reach the international level later in their careers often have a better understanding of their game and experience performing under pressure. He highlighted Kelly’s ability to prove himself in challenging situations against Bangladesh and the West Indies. With over 300 professional matches to his name, Walter considers Kelly one of the country’s best fielders and believes he will be a vital player for the team.
Leave a Comment