New Zealand central contracts 2026-27: Devon Conway makes his comeback
What's the story
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced the inclusion of top-order batsman Devon Conway and fast bowler Blair Tickner in their 20-player central contract list for the 2026-27 season. The announcement comes after Conway's two-year absence from a full-time contract. He was on a casual playing agreement with NZC to play in global franchise tournaments. Here are further details.
Contract renewal
Tickner's stellar performances earn him a full-time contract
While Conway is back in the mix, Tickner's return to the central contract list comes on the back of some stellar performances across formats. NZC head coach Rob Walter praised Tickner, saying he has "worked extremely hard over the past few years and added new levels to his game." Walter also emphasized the importance of having Blair contracted full-time to maintain depth in their bowling stocks with a heavy red-ball cricket schedule ahead.
Player retention
Walter emphasizes the importance of Conway's availability
Walter also expressed his happiness at Conway's full-time availability, especially after the recent retirement of former captain Kane Williamson. He said, "Devon has been a regular member of the side in all three formats for some time now, even whilst on a casual contract." The head coach added that it's great to have a player of Conway's caliber back on the list with so much exciting cricket coming up.
Contract adjustments
Changes in the central contract list
The central contract list also sees the exclusion of Adithya Ashok and Muhammad Abbas, making way for Conway and Tickner. Meanwhile, Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman have requested to be included on the list as white-ball specialists. The final 20-player central contract list comprises Tom Blundell, Bracewell, Chapman, Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, and Mitch Hay, among others.
Information
Here's the complete list
NZ central contracts 2026-27: Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, and Will Young.