Conway returns to NZ central contracts list for 2026-27 season

Opener Devon Conway has returned to New Zealand's central contracts list for the 2026-27 season. Announcing the 20-member list, NZC also confirmed the return of pace bowler Blair Tickner, with Adithya Ashok and Muhammad Abbas making way.

Conway had only been on a casual playing agreement over the last two years due to his involvement in T20 leagues worldwide. But with New Zealand entering a significant period in Test cricket, Conway has now made himself available for all international fixtures during this contract period (August 1, 2026 – July 31, 2027).

Conway's presence will be a massive boost for a side depleted by the recent retirement of Kane Williamson, who will no longer hold a casual playing agreement. "Devon has been a regular member of the side in all three formats for some time now, even whilst on a casual contract, so it's great to have a player of his calibre back on the central contract list," Head Coach Rob Walter said.

Tickner earned his spot with impressive performances, including a five-wicket haul against Ireland in the one-off Test. "Blair has worked extremely hard over the past few years and added new levels to his game," Walter said. "He's an excellent team man and has stepped into various roles and excelled. It's important we continue to nurture depth in our bowling stocks, especially with a heavy diet of red-ball cricket over the next 12 months."

Zak Foulkes and Mitch Hay, who were both handed central contracts last time, have been retained after featuring in all three formats over the last 12 months.

NZC also confirmed that Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman have requested not to be ranked in Test cricket, and will be present in the central contracts list only as white-ball specialists.

Over the next few weeks, NZC will announce casual playing agreements, with Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert among those expected to be in contention.

Central Contract List for 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, Will Young