Overview

• New Zealand Cricket named 20 centrally contracted players for 2025–26, emphasizing a youth-oriented transition ahead of a packed international schedule.
• All-rounders Muhammad Abbas and Zak Foulkes, wicketkeeper Mitch Hay and leg-spinner Adithya Ashok earned their first central deals following standout performances in recent ODIs and T20Is.
• Kane Williamson, Devon Conway and Finn Allen declined full contracts and are negotiating casual agreements to maintain their commitments to global Twenty20 leagues.
• Experienced spinners Ish Sodhi, Ajaz Patel and all-rounder Josh Clarkson were dropped following performance reviews, and retired pacer Tim Southee was also absent from the list.
• NZC CEO Scott Weenink said the new contracts reflect the depth and versatility of the talent pool as the Black Caps prepare for the T20 World Cup, a tri-series in Harare and a two-test tour of Zimbabwe.