New Zealand Cricket has released a rebuilt central contracts list as they prepare the Black Caps for a busy period, with two experienced internationals being welcomed back in to the fold. The selectors are looking to combine experience along with youth since the national side has a long season ahead across formats.
The comeback of Conway – adjudged New Zealand’s most dependable batter the last few years – is a notable one too. Previously the left-handed opener has withdrawn from a full central contract system while balancing franchise cricket opportunities with international duties. Even after that change, he was committed to playing for New Zealand whenever possible and remained a key part of the national setup. His return to the contracted players list indicates both his continuing worth to the team, and New Zealand Cricket’s faith that he can still play a path for some of New Zealand’s great years ahead.
Since debuting for New Zealand internationally, the wicketkeeper-batter has played an integral role for the Black Caps with essential runs across Tests, One-Day Internationals and T20 Internationals. That flexibility has made him a key component of New Zealand’s batting that works across formats. A central contract for Conway – who can play in multiple formats – is an enormous plus to have as the national side builds into a succession of major series and tournaments.
Another returnee to the contracts list is fast bowler Blair Tickner, who was on the edges of the national setup. Tickner, who has played Test for New Zealand in all three formats and been a promising performer in domestic cricket combining good pace, discipline and an ability to swing the ball under helpful conditions. The 32-year-old has continued to keep himself fit and is still considered a great pace-bowling pick for the selectors.
His return reinforces New Zealand Cricket’s view that there remain key roles for senior bowlers alongside the nation’s next generation of speedsters. Tickner has depth and value to offer, still giving the bowling attack vary so when you have a busy international calendar it is not uncommon for squads to be rotated.
In the latest announcement of contracts, it reflects how much New Zealand Cricket’s approach to managing their players has matured. The board has increasingly tried to accommodate franchises on flexible terms, allowing leading players opportunity for international and elsewhere commitments at the same time as the rise of global franchise leagues. Conway and Tickner’s return means both good news for both the players involved and for New Zealand national team overall, as it sets up another chance to hold on two proven performers as they attempt to keep their competitiveness at the world level.
