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Star all-rounder Michael Bracewell has opted to move to a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) for the 2026-27 season after choosing to pursue an opportunity in the Big Bash League (BBL).
Bracewell's move will not keep him away from New Zealand duty altogether. The all-rounder is expected to be part of the upcoming white-ball assignments, including the five-match T20I series against India later this month, while NZC has handed his central contract spot to Northern Districts batter Nick Kelly.
Michael Bracewell picks BBL over New Zealand, shifts to casual contract
Bracewell is one of several New Zealand players on casual contracts for the 2026-27 season, alongside Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert. His decision comes with the all-rounder now established as a white-ball specialist and keen to make the most of opportunities in franchise cricket.
Despite moving away from the central contract list, Michael Bracewell has made it clear that his commitment to New Zealand cricket remains unchanged. He will continue to be available for the BLACKCAPS and is looking forward to the upcoming India series.
The move also gives Michael Bracewell an opportunity to feature in the BBL while keeping his international commitments intact. He also has another domestic competition in his sights, with the NZ20 set to begin next summer.
Michael Bracewell opens up on backing from New Zealand Cricket
Bracewell expressed his appreciation for NZC's willingness to allow him to pursue the BBL opportunity at this stage of his career. He believes the arrangement gives him the chance to explore franchise cricket without stepping away from his international responsibilities.
“The backing from New Zealand Cricket for me to take this opportunity at this stage of my career means a lot,” Michael Bracewell said.
The all-rounder explained that, as a white-ball-only player, the BBL opportunity was difficult to turn down. At the same time, he stressed that playing for New Zealand remains a priority.
“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," he added.
“I’ve also got my eyes firmly fixed on the opportunity to be involved in the inaugural NZ20 which is set to be introduced from next summer."
Nick Kelly replaces Michael Bracewell in central contract list
Kelly has earned his first New Zealand central contract at the age of 33. The Northern Districts batter recently returned from a stint with Leicestershire, where he scored 950 runs across formats. Nick Kelly made his BLACKCAPS debut in March 2025 and has since played 15 internationals.
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter hailed Kelly and said that his long domestic career has prepared him well for international cricket.
“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," he said.
Walter also believes Kelly's experience can help him handle international pressure.
“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.”
Rob Walter further highlighted Kelly's recent performances and his experience across professional cricket.
“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.”
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