All-Rounders Smith and Clarkson Join New Zealand Central Contracts

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced the addition of all-rounders Nathan Smith and Josh Clarkson to its central contracts list, replacing Devon Conway and Finn Allen who declined offers last month.

Smith, 26, is yet to make his international debut but has impressed in domestic cricket, particularly in red-ball cricket. He was the leading wicket-taker in last season's Plunket Shield with 33 wickets at an average of 17.18 for champions Wellington. He also had a successful stint with Worcestershire in the County Championship, claiming 27 wickets in seven matches.

"Nathan's been on our radar for a while having been a significant performer in domestic cricket for some time," said New Zealand head coach Gary Stead. "He's been particularly impressive in red-ball cricket and we think he has the skills to be successful in international cricket when he gets a chance."

Clarkson, 27, has played three ODIs and T20Is for New Zealand. He featured in series against Bangladesh, Australia, and Pakistan last season.

"Josh has been involved in both white ball squads over the past twelve months which shows the strides he's made in his game," Stead said. "He's a hard-hitting player with plenty of skills and has shown in his chances so far that he can offer a lot with bat and ball on the international stage. Josh will provide depth and adds value given the volume of white ball cricket on the horizon."

The vacancies on the contract list arose when Conway and Allen opted out to take up T20 league deals during January. Conway, who will play in the SA20 for Joburg Super Kings, was offered a casual playing contract, while Allen, who signed a two-year deal with Perth Scorchers in the BBL, will remain eligible for selection on a case-by-case basis.

New Zealand return to action next week with a one-off Test against Afghanistan in Greater Noida before traveling to Sri Lanka for two Tests and then India for three.

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