Jimmy Neesham Declines New Zealand Central Contract Ahead Of T20 World Cup Squad Announcement

Jimmy Neesham, an all-rounder for New Zealand, turned down a central contract offer on Friday.

He made the statement on Instagram and added that he has previously committed to other international leagues.

The roster for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, which starts in October, was announced just four days earlier than the posting of the story. In place of Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme, Neesham was given two of the open seats on the list. However, the all-rounder had to decline the offer because he had already made plans to play in other competitions.

Due to his desire to spend more time with his family and play in other leagues across the world while de Grandhomme departed from international cricket, Boult rejected the contract earlier this year. The South Africa T20 league auction will now feature Neesham.

I have committed to other leagues around the world: Jimmy Neesham

He said that he expects to rejoin the team soon, particularly for international competitions.
Neesham wrote on an Instagram story, “I know the news of my decision to decline a central contract today will be seen as me choosing money over representing my country. I had planned to accept a contract offer in July, but since being left off the list I have committed to other leagues around the world. It was a difficult decision but I have decided to honor those commitments rather than go back on my word to re-sign with NZ Cricket.”

On September 20, New Zealand will announce its T20 World Cup squad. Between October 7 and October 14, they will play a tri-series in Christchurch with Pakistan and Bangladesh to prepare for the occasion.

Also Read: IPL: Jimmy Neesham Blames Lack of Opportunities To Translate His Talent In The Indian T20 League