Mitchell McClenaghan forgoes New Zealand contract in a bid to play in T20 leagues

Kiwi left-arm quick Mitchell McClenaghan has handed in his New Zealand Cricket contract to play in various T20 leagues around the world. McClenaghan, 31, explained that this was the toughest decision he has had to make but has expressed his desire to play for the country in future.

McClenaghan set to be a T20 specialist

With the number of T20 leagues on the rise, the latest one being Global T20 League of South Africa, McClenaghan wants to make the full use of his short format skills and play for various teams. Currently, he is looking forward to playing in the Global T20 League followed by the Big Bash League. His recent exploits in the IPL, where he plays for the Mumbai Indians, has given him a recognition after he had an impressive season, finishing as the fourth highest wicket-taker in the league with 19 sticks at 26.68. He is expected to attract high bids once he will go under the hammer before the next season in 2018.

The Auckland Aces fast bowler was one of the 21 contracted players in New Zealand. His exodus has resulted in Lockie Ferguson being roped in to cover the left-arm bowler. The 26-year old Ferguson has already played 7 ODIs and a T20 for the Kiwis.

McClenaghan, who had signed the NZC contract in June this year, said that he had to alter his decision because plenty has changed in the last two months. “Some new playing opportunities have arisen in the past few weeks, which means my circumstances have changed,” he said.

“I’m very grateful for the respect, understanding, and goodwill that has underpinned my request to be released from my NZC contract.

“I’ve worked closely with NZC throughout the process, while also making it clear I still harbor ambitions of playing for New Zealand in the future.”

The Kiwis respect McClenaghan’s decision

NZC performance manager Bryan Stronach respected McClenaghan’s decision to concentrate on T20 cricket, a format he excels in. “We have to recognize that, as the T20 game matures, specialists will want to explore the different opportunities that become available and I think Mitch’s case is symptomatic of that,” he said.

“This agreement has been reached amicably and mutually; all parties understand the change in Mitch’s circumstances and he is released from his contract with our best wishes.”

The contracted Kiwi players get an amount of anywhere between $83,000 to $2,05,000. The Test, ODI, and T20 match fees stand at $8495, $3682 and $2407 respectively. McClenaghan played 48 ODIs and 28 T20s picking 82 and 30 wickets respectively. He will remain eligible for selection for New Zealand.