Mitchell Hay Secures Spot in NZ Central Contract for 2025–26

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has unveiled its central contracts list for the 2025–26 season, introducing four fresh names to the lineup. 

All-rounder Muhammad Abbas and wicketkeeper-batter Mitchell Hay headline the newcomers, having made significant contributions in recent white-ball fixtures.

Hay notably scored an unbeaten 99 against Pakistan in an ODI earlier this year, while Abbas impressed by recording the fastest half-century on one-day debut, reaching the mark in just 24 balls during the same series.

Despite being eligible, several high-profile players have opted not to accept central contracts. Kane Williamson, who had already indicated his decision, joins Devon Conway, Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, and Lockie Ferguson in stepping away from the list. In a statement, NZC noted that discussions with these players are "ongoing" to define informal playing arrangements.

Veteran fast bowler Tim Southee, who has announced his retirement, is no longer part of the contracted group. He is joined by Josh Clarkson, Ajaz Patel, and Ish Sodhi, who were all omitted from this year’s roster.

The contract selections were made with input from head coach Gary Stead, who recently stepped down as white-ball coach. Stead is currently awaiting a decision on whether he will continue in his role with the Test side.

Full Central Contracts List:
Muhammad Abbas, Adithya Ashok, Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, 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, Will Young.