Cricket

As the allure of lucrative T20 deals overseas continues to entice New Zealand's top cricketers, Test captain Tim Southee has expressed his hope for a collaborative solution between cricket boards and franchise leagues. The exodus of high-profile players like Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, and Adam Milne from central contracts has left New Zealand Cricket (NZC) facing a significant challenge.Southee acknowledges the growing popularity of franchise leagues but emphasizes the importance of Test cricket as the pinnacle of the sport. He believes that boards and leagues should work together to find a balance that allows players to prioritize both international and domestic commitments."It would be nice to see the international [boards] and the leagues working together in some way because, especially Test cricket, I think for a lot of players is still the pinnacle of the format," Southee said.Despite the calendar clash, Southee remains committed to Test cricket, which he holds "closest to the heart." He believes that the Hundred format has helped him improve his skills and stay competitive across all formats.New Zealand's upcoming tour of Asia will test their ability to manage player workloads. Head coach Gary Stead has indicated that Southee may be rested for some matches to accommodate more spinners in the XI. Southee understands the need for balance but hopes to play in all nine Tests."I think it's just natural when you come to this part of the world," Southee said. "Obviously spin plays a big part, but ideally, I'd like to play all the Test matches available."The team management will assess the conditions and select the best XI for each game. Southee believes that picking the best side for each Test match is crucial, regardless of location."You decide to win over the five days," Southee said. "So we've got a lot of cricket in the subcontinent, six Test matches and then three Test matches back home."

New Zealand's domestic cricket season is set to kick off soon, and several provinces have announced their contracted players for the upcoming campaign. Here's a comprehensive overview of the latest updates:Central Hinds:Central Hinds captain Natalie Dodd has opted out of the contracting process due to her pregnancy. The team has signed Anna Gaging, who joins her twin sister Kate on the roster. Last season's young additions, Aniela Apperley, Emma McLeod, and Flora Devonshire, have retained their spots. The captaincy remains undecided, with Hannah Rowe a potential candidate.Canterbury Magicians:Kate Anderson has returned to the Canterbury Magicians after missing out on an NZC central contract. Harriet Graham has earned her first domestic contract after impressing in the wider squad. The team is committed to developing young talent, with senior players providing guidance and support.Other Updates:Other provinces have also announced their contracted players. Northern Districts has retained the core of its squad, including White Ferns stars Suzie Bates and Lauren Down. Wellington Blaze has signed promising all-rounder Georgia Plimmer, while Otago Sparks has added experienced batter Katey Martin.Key Points:* Natalie Dodd's absence creates an opportunity for other players to step up for Central Hinds.* Canterbury Magicians are focused on developing young talent and providing a supportive environment.* Several provinces have retained their key players, while others have added promising additions.* The upcoming domestic season promises to be competitive and exciting, with a mix of experienced and emerging players.

Tom Latham, a potential successor to Kane Williamson as New Zealand's ODI captain, acknowledges the need for flexibility in adapting to players opting out of central contracts for franchise deals.With Williamson, Lockie Ferguson, and Adam Milne unavailable for the latest contracts, Latham emphasizes the changing landscape of cricket. He suggests that the team must be fluid in its approach, recognizing that players may prioritize franchise opportunities at different stages of their careers.Latham highlights the importance of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy and the need to adapt to the absence of key players. He believes that the contract system has worked well but acknowledges the need to review it in light of the evolving game.Latham's own captaincy ambitions are not at the forefront, as he primarily focuses on Test and ODI cricket. However, he expresses his willingness to lead if given the opportunity.Coach Gary Stead confirms that Latham is among the candidates for the ODI captaincy but emphasizes the need for a long-term commitment leading up to the next World Cup.New Zealand will face Sri Lanka and Pakistan in six ODIs during their home summer before participating in a tri-series in Pakistan ahead of the Champions Trophy.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced its central contracts for the 2024-25 season, with four exciting additions and the return of a veteran spinner.Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Will O'Rourke, and Jacob Duffy have been offered their maiden central contracts, recognizing their impressive performances in recent times. Ravindra, a rising star, emerged as a breakout player in the 2023 ODI World Cup and scored his maiden Test century against South Africa. Sears and O'Rourke made strong impressions on their Test debuts, while Duffy has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket.Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel returns to the contract list after a successful Test season. With a heavy Test schedule ahead, including overseas tours to Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and India, Patel's experience and skill will be invaluable.Despite dropping out of the Test side last season, top-order batter Henry Nicholls retains his contract. Kyle Jamieson, currently recovering from a back injury, is also on the list, although his availability remains uncertain.Kane Williamson, Lockie Ferguson, and Adam Milne have declined central contracts. Williamson will prioritize the SA20 league in January but remains available for New Zealand outside that period."We're producing international-ready Blackcaps and we're pleased with the current depth," said NZC selector Sam Wells. "The strength of the list is perhaps best measured by the quality of some of the players who weren't offered contracts."NZC will now need to appoint a new white-ball captain following Williamson's decision.

Kane Williamson, the former New Zealand captain, has confirmed his participation in the inaugural season of the SA20 league in January 2023. This decision comes after Williamson declined a central contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) for the 2024-25 season.Williamson emphasized that his decision was primarily driven by NZC's player availability rules, which require players to participate in the Super Smash domestic tournament if not on international duty. He stressed that his commitment to New Zealand cricket remains unwavering, despite his absence from the SA20.The SA20 league will likely see Williamson miss only a handful of international matches, including three ODIs and three T20Is against Sri Lanka. However, his participation in the one-off Test against Afghanistan in September remains uncertain. Williamson will participate in the World Test Championship series against Sri Lanka and India, the three-match home series against England, and an ODI tour of Pakistan ahead of the Champions Trophy in February.Williamson expressed his excitement about the SA20 league, stating that it is a "really exciting" competition. He acknowledged that his decision to decline the central contract was a difficult one, but emphasized that his priority remains playing for New Zealand.Regarding the longevity of his international career, Williamson indicated that he intends to play as long as possible. He acknowledged that major events and series, such as the 2028 T20 World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, remain on his radar. However, he emphasized the importance of managing his time and fitness effectively.Williamson also expressed his desire to continue playing across all three formats of international cricket. However, he acknowledged that his T20 spot may come under scrutiny as the team rebuilds following their disappointing performance at the T20 World Cup in the West Indies.NZC CEO Scott Weenink stated that the casual playing arrangement afforded to Williamson will only be offered to a select few senior players who have earned the right to be treated in a certain way. He cited Trent Boult and Tim Southee as other players who have been granted this option.

New Zealand Women's cricket team has announced its 17-member squad for the 2024-25 season, with the return of batter Lauren Down and the inclusion of wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis.Down, who has played 28 ODIs and 13 T20Is for New Zealand, declined a contract offer last season due to maternity leave. However, she has been recalled to the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of England and has now accepted a central contract.Inglis, on the other hand, has earned her maiden central contract after impressing for New Zealand A and in the NZC Women's One Day Competition. She scored 103 runs in three one-dayers against England A and was the second-highest run-scorer in the domestic 50-over tournament.New Zealand Women's head coach Ben Sawyer expressed confidence in the squad, stating that it comprises players who can contribute significantly over the next 12 months. He emphasized the importance of considering the 2025 ODI World Cup in the selection process.Among the players who held central contracts in 2023-24, wicketkeeper-batter Bernadine Bezuidenhout has retired from international cricket, while batter Kate Anderson has not been offered a contract.The 2024-25 contracting period begins on August 1, and the players have until June 17 to accept their offers.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has once again showcased its innovative and heartwarming approach to engaging with fans. Following the charming squad announcement video featuring kids Angus and Matilda, NZC has released a touching farewell video as the Blackcaps depart for the T20 World Cup 2024.The video captures the heartwarming moments between Angus and Matilda and the cricketers at the airport. The duo interacts with the players, wishing them well and expressing their excitement for the tournament. The video highlights the close bond between the team and its young fans.NZC's unique approach to squad announcements has garnered widespread praise. Last year, the board enlisted the help of players' family members to unveil the ODI World Cup team. This innovative style has set NZC apart and has been lauded by fans and experts alike.The T20 World Cup 2024 will be held in the West Indies and the USA from June 2. The Blackcaps, led by returning captain Kane Williamson, will be aiming to make a significant impact on the global stage. The team boasts a strong squad with a mix of experienced players and rising stars.

Neil Wagner, the veteran New Zealand fast bowler, has announced his retirement from international cricket, a decision that has raised questions about whether it was forced upon him. Wagner's former teammate, Ross Taylor, believes that the decision was not entirely voluntary.Wagner's retirement came after he was informed that he would not be part of the ongoing Test series against Australia. This news sparked speculation that Wagner's retirement was a result of a forced decision by the New Zealand Cricket (NZC) selectors.Taylor, speaking on ESPN's Around The Wicket podcast, expressed his belief that Wagner's retirement was "forced." He pointed to Wagner's press conference, where he stated that he was retiring after the Test match against Australia, indicating that he had made himself available for selection.However, Wagner was released from the squad after the first Test in Wellington. An injury to William O'Rourke led to talk of a potential recall for Wagner for the second Test in Christchurch. However, NZC opted to select the uncapped fast bowler Ben Sears instead.Taylor questioned this decision, stating that Wagner would have been a valuable asset in the must-win Test against Australia. He believes that Wagner's experience and intimidation factor would have prevented Australia from posting such a large total in their first innings.Aaron Finch, the former Australian captain, also expressed his surprise at Wagner's omission from the XI. He believes that Wagner's success against Australia, particularly against Steven Smith, would have made a significant difference in the match.Finch pointed to the record 116-run partnership between Josh Hazlewood and Cameron Green, which laid the foundation for Australia's victory. He believes that Wagner's presence would have disrupted this partnership and prevented Australia from reaching such a high total.Taylor echoed Finch's sentiments, emphasizing Wagner's experience and ability to intimidate opposition batters. He believes that Wagner's absence allowed Hazlewood and Green to play with more freedom and contribute to Australia's victory.Wagner's retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket. He was a key member of the team for over a decade, known for his aggressive bowling style and ability to extract reverse swing. His departure will leave a significant void in the New Zealand bowling attack.

New Zealand's women's cricket team has announced its squad for the upcoming five-match T20I and three-match ODI series against England at home. The squad features the return of seamer Rosemary Mair and batter Brooke Halliday, who missed the recent series against Pakistan due to injury.Mair, who last played for New Zealand in August 2022, has been rewarded for her impressive performances in the Super Smash, New Zealand's domestic T20 tournament. She was the fourth-highest wicket-taker with 14 scalps, including a memorable 4 for 5 in the final.Halliday, who has been out with a foot injury, made a successful return to action in the Super Smash, scoring 108 in a List A game against Canterbury. Her inclusion in the squad is a boost for New Zealand, as she is a key member of the batting lineup.Offspinner Leigh Kasperek has also been included in the squad for the last two T20Is. Kasperek played a crucial role in Wellington's Super Smash triumph, picking up 17 wickets at an economy of 5.38.The tour will begin with two warm-up T20s in Queenstown on March 10 and 12, followed by the first T20I in Dunedin on March 19. Three standby players will be named closer to the series to cover for Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine, or Lea Tahuhu, who are currently playing in the Women's Premier League in India.New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer expressed his satisfaction with the squad selection, particularly highlighting Mair's progress and Kasperek's consistency. He also noted that Georgia Plimmer will only be available for the ODIs, while Eden Carson will play in the first three T20Is and also feature for New Zealand A in the corresponding series against England A.