The cricket board of New Zealand said on Thursday that top-order batsmen Devon Conway and Finn Allen have declined central contracts to play for their respective franchises.
On the other hand, Conway will be available for New Zealand’s overseas missions under a non-binding contract like to the one Kane Williamson just inked with NZC.
Conway will therefore participate in international competitions unless they conflict with his franchise obligations.
“Firstly, I’d like to thank New Zealand Cricket for their support through this process,” Conway said in a video posted by Blackcaps on ‘X’.
“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.”
However, Conway said the decision to opt out of the central contract was taken in the best interest of his family.
“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,” he added.
“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,” said NZC chief executive Scott Weenink.
“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,” he said.
However, he has other options, including playing professionally for the Southern Brave and Birmingham Phoenix in England’s “The Hundred,” as well as for the San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket (MLC).
