Conway opts for casual contract with NZC, Allen declines it totally

New Zealand batter Devon Conway has opted for a casual contract, which effectively means that he need not be available for selection for all of his side's matches over the summer. However, the batter has confirmed that he will be available for all of New Zealand's matches, barring the white-ball fixtures against Sri Lanka in January, which will overlap with the SA20. Conway was recently named for the Tests against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.

Finn Allen, on the other hand, has turned down the central contract to focus on franchise cricket around the globe. Unlike Conway, he has not been offered a casual contract.  

Conway will be available for all the international matches in the next 12 months, the ICC Champions Trophy in February-March next year, and the tri-series against Pakistan and South Africa before it. “Firstly, I’d like to thank New Zealand Cricket for their support through this process,” Conway said.

“The decision to move away from a central playing contract isn’t one I’ve taken lightly, but I believe it is the best for me and my family at this present time.

“Playing for the Blackcaps is still the pinnacle for me and I’m hugely passionate about representing New Zealand and winning games of international cricket.

“I’m excited to be part of the upcoming Test squads for an important period in the ICC World Test Championship cycle and am looking forward to being involved in the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan next February if selected.”

NZC CEO Scott Weenink said that Conway was offered casual contract given his overall performance and due to the fact that he will be available for most of the matches. “We’re delighted with Devon’s decision to commit to the BLACKCAPS – he’s a quality player who’s made a strong contribution to the team over the past few years,” Weenink said.

“In the current environment, it’s important to have flexibility in our system to navigate some of the challenges posed by franchise cricket – and this is another example of how we’re working hard to retain our best players.”

An announcement as to who will replace Conway and Allen on the New Zealand central contracts will be made in due course.

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