# New Zealand cricketers adopting casual contracts

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-cricketers-adopting-casual-contracts
> Updated: 2026-10-05T13:04:00.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

New Zealand cricketers are increasingly opting for casual contracts with New Zealand Cricket to facilitate participation in franchise leagues, specifically Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL).

In September 2026, Mark Chapman signed a casual contract to allow him to play in the BBL during the domestic summer. This move resulted in Matt Fisher being promoted to the central contract list to bolster the pace attack for upcoming series against India, Australia, and Sri Lanka.

Following this trend, Michael Bracewell transitioned to a casual contract in October 2026 to pursue opportunities in the BBL and New Zealand’s inaugural NZ20 competition. Bracewell noted the opportunity was “too good to pass up” while maintaining his availability for the Blackcaps. His move led to Nick Kelly receiving a central contract.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-05: Michael Bracewell moves to casual contract for BBL opportunity

Michael Bracewell has moved to a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket for the 2026-27 season to pursue Big Bash League opportunities while remaining available for the Blackcaps.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/michael-bracewell-moves-to-casual-contract-for-bbl-opportunity

### 2026-09-08: Mark Chapman signs casual contract with New Zealand Cricket for BBL

Mark Chapman has signed a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket to play in Australia's Big Bash League, while Matt Fisher has been promoted to a central contract.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mark-chapman-signs-casual-contract-with-new-zealand-cricket-for-bbl

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Cite as: New Zealand cricketers adopting casual contracts. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-cricketers-adopting-casual-contracts