Ahead of the IPL 2025 Final, the New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC) has announced its central contract list for the 2025-26 season.
Sports News: As the IPL 2025 final approaches, the cricketing world's attention is focused on this highly anticipated match. Just prior to this significant event, the New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC) has announced its central contract list for the 2025-26 season. While experienced players have retained their places, four new faces have also garnered attention. Notably, Kyle Jamieson, who returned as a replacement player in the IPL, has also been awarded a contract.
Kyle Jamieson Rewarded for IPL Resurgence
Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson, playing for the Punjab Kings in IPL 2025, made a highly impressive return to cricket. He joined the team as a replacement for an injured player but seized the opportunity. With precise yorkers and variations in pace, Jamieson troubled batsmen and caught the selectors' attention.
Jamieson has had an inconsistent presence in the New Zealand team for a while. However, he fully capitalized on the limited opportunities he received in IPL 2025, resulting in his reinstatement to the NZC central contract. He previously played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2021.
Four New Faces Impress Selectors
This NZC list includes four newcomers who have recently entered international cricket:
- Mitch Hew
- Mohammad Abbas
- Jack Foulkes
- Aditya Ashok
These four players had limited opportunities in international matches last year, but their performances propelled them into contention for a central contract. Aditya Ashok, a leg-spinner, has particularly established himself as a promising bowler with excellent performances in domestic cricket. Young all-rounders like Mohammad Abbas and Jack Foulkes have won the selectors' trust with lower-order batting and economical bowling.
New Players Poised for Key Roles in Upcoming Season
The NZC expects these emerging players to play crucial roles in the Zimbabwe tour in July and subsequent home series against teams like the West Indies and England. The selectors have clearly signaled that it's time to consistently provide opportunities to young talent to build a b squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
While this list includes new faces, the NZC has also shown continued faith in its experienced players. Players like Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Daryl Mitchell, and Glenn Phillips retain their places, ensuring team balance and providing ample learning opportunities for the young players.
Complete List of Central Contract Players 2025-26
Mohammad Abbas, Aditya Ashok, Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Jack Foulkes, Mitch Hew, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, and Will Young.
