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Blackcaps batter shifts to casual contract to pursue Big Bash opportunity
Sport Nation • September 8th, 2026 8:30 am
Photo: Chris Symes/Photosport
Blackcaps batter Mark Chapman has decided to move to a central contract with NZ Cricket to allow him to pursue an opportunity in the Australian Big Bash League.
Chapman will remain available for the Blackcaps’ upcoming series against India, joining fellow casually contracted players Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert.
The decision means Chapman won't be available for the Auckland Aces' next Super Smash campaign.
The 31-year-old said he was grateful for the support he had received from NZC and remained committed to representing his country.
“I’m thankful to New Zealand Cricket for their support now and throughout my career," Chapman said in a statement.
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"The upcoming India series is one all us players are really excited for, and I’m committed wholeheartedly to performing in that series."
Chapman’s decision has opened the door for Northern Districts fast bowler Matthew Fisher to earn his first central contract, completing NZC’s list of 20 contracted Blackcaps for the 2026-27 season.
Fisher has featured for New Zealand across all three formats and recently produced career-best ODI figures of 3-40 against the West Indies, helping the Blackcaps secure just their second ODI series win in the Caribbean in July.
NZC Selection Manager Gavin Larsen said Fisher’s ability to generate express pace would be particularly valuable given the busy schedule ahead.
“With the heavy schedule of cricket coming up, notably the Test matches against India, Australia, and Sri Lanka, we know we’ll need good depth in our fast-bowling stock.
“Matt is someone able to bowl that express pace which is extremely valuable to the balance of any side, so we’re excited to have him on the central contract list.”
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