Just a month after star bowler Trent Boult decided to decline the New Zealand central contract, star-allrounder James Neesham has now followed in his teammate's path. The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on September 16 (Friday) confirmed that Neesham, who has 'pre-arranged agreements with overseas domestic leagues' has decided to decline the national contract. Despite his decision to prioritise domestic leagues, the NZC also stated that Neesham will be available for selection when available.
"I know the news of my decision to decline a central contract today will be seen as me choosing money over representing my country. I had planned to accept a contract offer in July, however since being left off the list I have committed to other leagues around the world. It was a difficult decision but I have decided to honour those commitments rather than go back on my word to re-sign with NZ Cricket," Neesham wrote on Instagram.
"Playing for the @blackcapsnz has been the greatest honour of my career and I remain committed to taking the field with my countrymen for the foreseeable future, especially in pinnacle world events," he added.
After Boult and Colin de Grandhomme, who recently announced his retirement, left two spots vacant on the NZC central contract, the places have now been occupied by Blair Tickner and Finn Allen.
“Blair's been in BLACKCAPS squads for all three formats over the past 12 months which is testament to his progress,” New Zealand coach Gary Stead said in an official statement.
“He's a bowler who just keeps improving and we've been particularly impressed with his red-ball development, which saw him in the recent squads for the England and South Africa Tests," he added.
