Big names missing as NZC announces men’s central contract list

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has awarded central contracts to allrounders Nathan Smith and Josh Clarkson for the first time, following standout performances in domestic and international cricket. 

The duo will take over for Devon Conway and Finn Allen, who opted out of NZC's central contracts to focus on franchise cricket. Additionally, Kane Williamson not only declined the central contract but also stepped down as New Zealand captain.

Smith was named the Men's Domestic Player of the Year at the NZC Awards in March. He excelled in the Plunket Shield, finishing as the top wicket-taker with 33 wickets at an average of 17, including his career-best 6 for 36 against Canterbury. 

His success extended to white-ball formats, where he claimed 11 wickets in the Ford Trophy and 13 in the Super Smash tournaments.

Clarkson, 27, made his international debut in December and has since featured in three ODIs and six T20Is. His rise to prominence came during the 2022-23 domestic season, where he played a pivotal role in Central Stags' triumph in both the Plunket Shield and the Ford Trophy.

Head coach Gary Stead expressed confidence in both players. 

"Nathan's been on our radar for a while having been a significant performer in domestic cricket for some time," said head coach Gary Stead. "He's been particularly impressive in red ball cricket and we think he has the skills to be successful in international cricket when he gets a chance.

"Josh has been involved in both white ball squads over the past twelve months which shows the strides he's made in his game," he said of Clarkson. "He's a hard-hitting player with plenty of skills and has shown in his chances so far that he can offer a lot with bat and ball on the international stage.

"Josh will provide depth and adds value given the volume of white ball cricket on the horizon."

Smith and Clarkson were part of New Zealand’s Under-19 World Cup squad, alongside fellow international players Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Ben Sears.

NZC central contracts list: Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young