New NZC chief aims to encourage players to sign central contracts and prioritise Test cricket

Scott Weenink has been appointed as the new chief executive of New Zealand Cricket. He was previously the chairman of the New Zealand Cricket Players Association but has stepped down in order to replace David White at the helm of things. Upon his appointment, the 50-year-old has clarified that his primary goal is to prioritise Test cricket and to encourage more cricketers to sign central contracts.

Recently, the likes of Trent Boult, Jimmy Neesham and Colin de Grandhomme have opted out of the central contract, which has created a lot of controversy in the cricketing world. Hence, Weenink wants to stop the cycle and encourage cricketers to play more for the national team. He however clarified that the board understands the reason behind their leaving and hence, aims to be flexible enough, which will help both parties.

“I think one of the strengths of New Zealand cricket is the flexibility it has around the contracting. We need to recognise that players want to generate as much earnings for themselves during what is a short term contract, while also wanting to play cricket for New Zealand. We need to try and keep on top of that, make sure that we're giving players flexibility, but also really encouraging them to stay and play for New Zealand,” Weenick was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

I'll be looking to try and promote Test cricket: Weenick

Weenink mentioned that he is a Test cricket romantic and hence, wants to promote the longest format of the game. He understands that players want to play more red-ball cricket, and that’s one of the biggest reasons why most of them are still part of the contract. The Christchurch-born cricketer however wants to draw a delicate balance where they play Test cricket as well as limited overs cricket, as the latter draws more money.

"I'm a Test cricket romantic but also I see Test cricket as being key to keeping players playing for New Zealand. I think if we didn't have Test cricket, it'd be much harder to keep them interested in that. They'd simply, you know, come back and play an ICC [event]. So absolutely, I'll be looking to try and promote Test cricket while balancing the fact that we do need to play the higher revenue parts of the game as well.

“It is that difficult balance of recognising that Test Cricket doesn't make money, but it's very important for the fans and very important for the players. I think the Test Championship has been a great addition,” Weenink added.