Devon Conway Returns to NZ Central Contracts Ahead of Busy Test Season

The left-handed opener has been on a casual contract for the past two years. He spent much of that time playing T20 leagues around the world. But now, he is ready to commit fully to the national team. New Zealand Cricket has rewarded that commitment by naming him in the 20-member central contracts list for the 2026-27 season.

Conway’s return comes at a crucial time. Kane Williamson has recently retired. That leaves a big gap at the top of the order. Conway’s presence will give the side much-needed stability, especially in Test cricket.

Head coach Rob Walter welcomed the move. “Devon has been a regular member of the side in all three formats for some time now, even whilst on a casual contract,” he said. “It’s great to have a player of his calibre back on the central contract list, especially with the amount of exciting cricket coming up.”

The list also sees the return of fast bowler Blair Tickner. He replaces Adithya Ashok and Muhammad Abbas. Tickner impressed with a five-wicket haul against Ireland in the one-off Test and has worked hard on his game.

Walter praised Tickner’s growth. “He’s an excellent team man and has stepped into various roles for the side over the past few months and excelled in them.”

Zak Foulkes and Mitch Hay have been retained after featuring for New Zealand in all three formats over the last year.

Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman have both asked the board not to rank them in Test cricket. They will remain on the list but only as white-ball specialists.

New Zealand will also announce casual playing agreements in the coming weeks. Players like Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert are expected to be offered such deals.

Here is the full central contract list for 2026-27-

Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will Young.

                                               

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