The New Zealand Cricket Board said that top-order batters Devon Conway and Finn Allen have turned down central contracts on Thursday to pursue careers in franchise cricket. However, through a casual agreement similar to the one Kane Williamson recently signed with NZC, Conway will be available for New Zealand's international assignments. This indicates that Conway will participate in international matches unless they do not conflict with his commitments to his franchise.
Conway on turning down central contract
Conway expressed his gratitude to New Zealand Cricket for their support in this decision but also revealed the reason behind this decision saying that it was in his family's best interest to opt out of the central contract.
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"Firstly, I’d like to thank New Zealand Cricket for their support through this process. Playing for the Black Caps is still the pinnacle for me and I’m hugely passionate about representing New Zealand and winning games of international cricket. The decision to move away from a central playing contract isn’t one I’ve taken lightly, but I believe it is the best for me and my family at this present time,” Conway said in a video posted by Blackcaps on 'X'.
Williamson recently made the decision to play in the SA20 instead of the white ball series against Sri Lanka in January. Pacers Adam Milne and Lockie Ferugson also have similar sort of understanding with the Black Caps board.
"We're delighted with Devon's decision to commit to the Blackcaps - he's a quality player who's made a strong contribution to the team over the past few years. In the current environment it's important to have flexibility in our system to navigate some of the challenges posed by franchise cricket - and this is another example of how we're working hard to retain our best players" said NZC chief executive Scott Weenink.
Allen does not play a lot in the Indian Premier League but Conway is a big part of Chennai Super Kings. However, he has other options, including playing for the San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket (MLC) and for Birmingham Phoenix and Southern Brave in "The Hundred" in England.
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