New quartet named in New Zealand central contract list
New Zealand have named four changes to their central contract list for the 2025/2026 season, with Mitch Hay, Muhammad Abbas, Zak Foulkes and Adi Ashok all included for the first time.
The quartet come in after making strong performances for the Black Caps over the last 12 months, and will likely feature when the side tour Zimbabwe in July and host the likes of the West Indies and England in the upcoming home summer.
All-Rounder Muhammad Abbas hit 52 off 26 balls on his ODI debut against Pakistan in March, setting the fastest fifty on debut in men's ODIs, also claiming Mohammad Rizwan for his first ODI wicket, while fellow quick Foulkes made both ODI and T20I debuts last calendar year.
Leg-spinner Adi Ashok meanwhile enters having returned to the ODI squad in early 2025.
In the review overseen by New Zealand Cricket's high performance and coaching staff, domestic and international performances, the 2025/2026 schedule and the likelihood of representing New Zealand are taken into consideration.
New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive Scott Weenink says the selections are a point to the future, and a reflection of a successful pathways system.
'The contracts with Mitch, Muhammad, Adi and Zak reflect the incredible talent coming through our system,' Weenink said.
'These players have shown they can compete at the highest level, and their hunger to represent the Black Caps is exciting.
'We're thrilled to see this group drive our team forward.
"The list captures the depth and versatility of our talent pool. With a packed season ahead, including the ICC T20 World Cup in February, these players are ready to make their mark and inspire fans across New Zealand.'
Stellar New Zealand secure final spot | Match Highlights | Champions Trophy 2025
Stellar New Zealand secure final spot | Match Highlights | Champions Trophy 2025
The four come in for Tim Southee (retired), Ish Sodhi, Ajaz Patel, and Josh Clarkson, who were not offered contracts.
Casual playing contract negotiations for Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, and Lockie Ferguson are ongoing.
Gill trapped by Southee in front | WTC21 Final | Ind v NZ
Muhammad Abbas, Adithya Ashok, Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, William O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Will Young
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