Michael Bracewell opts for casual contract to keep overseas opportunities open, set to play BBL

New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has opted out of a central contract for the 2026-27 season as he looks to keep his options open for overseas opportunities in white-ball cricket. The 35-year-old has moved to a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket and is expected to pursue a stint in the Big Bash League.

Despite the change in his contract status, Bracewell remains an important part of New Zealand's white-ball plans. He will join Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert among the Blackcaps' casually contracted players.

Michael Bracewell remains committed to New Zealand

Bracewell's decision comes as New Zealand Cricket continues to offer greater flexibility to experienced white-ball players who want to play in overseas T20 leagues. The all-rounder remains available for New Zealand and is expected to feature in the upcoming five-match T20I series against India.

Bracewell said he was grateful to New Zealand Cricket for allowing him to explore opportunities at this stage of his career while maintaining his commitment to the national team.

"The backing from New Zealand Cricket for me to take this opportunity at this stage of my career means a lot," Bracewell was quoted as saying by The Times of India.

The 35-year-old, who now focuses solely on white-ball cricket, believes the opportunity was too good to turn down. He also made it clear that his move to a casual contract will not affect his commitment to the Blackcaps.

"As a white-ball only player, this felt like too good of an opportunity to pass up. I'm still very much committed to the Blackcaps and can't wait to be involved in the upcoming India tour and future white-ball series."

Bracewell is also keen to feature in New Zealand's upcoming domestic T20 competition. He is expected to be available for the inaugural NZ20 tournament from next summer.

Nick Kelly earns first New Zealand contract

Bracewell's move away from the central contract list has created an opportunity for Northern Districts batter Nick Kelly, who has received his first New Zealand contract.

Kelly's first national contract comes 11 years after he made his first-class debut. The 33-year-old made his international debut in March 2025 and has since represented New Zealand in eight ODIs and seven T20Is. He also led New Zealand in two T20Is against Bangladesh earlier this year after stepping in for the injured Tom Latham.

Kelly enters the contracted group after an impressive stint with Leicestershire, where he scored 950 runs across formats. He also registered his sixth List A century in the One Day Cup final against Middlesex.

Rob Walter backs experienced Nick Kelly

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter, who previously worked with Kelly for two seasons at Otago, believes the batter's consistent performances in domestic cricket have earned him the opportunity.

"Nick's been a standout performer in domestic cricket for several seasons now and it's testament to his hard work that he's earned this first contract at this stage of his career," Walter said.

Walter also believes Kelly's relatively late introduction to international cricket could work in his favour. Having already spent several years developing his game, the batter has the experience to handle pressure at the highest level.

"Introducing players like Nick to international cricket a bit later certainly has its advantages in terms of the player knowing their game and being able to trust themselves to perform under pressure," he added.

Kelly has strengthened his case for a regular place in New Zealand's white-ball setup with three fifties in his last four ODIs. His extensive experience across domestic and international cricket has also impressed Walter.

The Northern Districts batter has played more than 300 professional matches and is regarded as one of the best fielders in the country. Walter believes those qualities will make him a valuable addition to the contracted group.

"Nick stuck his hand up with his performances against Bangladesh and the West Indies in what was at times challenging batting conditions, he has more than 300 professional matches under his belt and is one of the best fielders in the country, so he adds a lot to our contracted group," Walter said.