New Zealand’s Mark Chapman Joins Casual Contract for Big Bash League
Wellington, New Zealand: New Zealand all-rounder Mark Chapman has moved from a full-time contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) to a casual playing contract. The change will allow him to take part in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) later this year.
Despite the change in his contract, Chapman will remain available for New Zealand’s upcoming white-ball series against India in November. He is expected to play for New Zealand before traveling to Australia to begin his BBL campaign in December.
Chapman is not the only New Zealand player who has chosen this arrangement. Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, and Tim Seifert are also on casual contracts with NZC. These contracts give players more freedom to play in overseas T20 leagues while still remaining available for important international assignments.
Chapman thanked New Zealand Cricket for supporting him throughout his career. He said he was grateful for the opportunities he had received while playing for the national team. His immediate focus will remain on representing New Zealand and preparing for the important series against India.
The decision to move Chapman to a casual contract has also opened a place on New Zealand’s central contract list for fast bowler Matt Fisher. NZC believes Fisher can provide useful pace-bowling depth as the team prepares for a demanding international schedule.
New Zealand are expected to face a busy period, with Test matches against India, Australia, and Sri Lanka on the schedule. Because of the heavy workload, the team wants to make sure it has enough quality fast bowlers available.
Fisher has already represented New Zealand in international cricket, although he has not yet played a Test match. He is known for his pace and is considered a player who could add extra strength to New Zealand’s bowling attack.
For Chapman, the immediate priority will be the white-ball series against India in November. After completing his international duties, he will travel to Australia and join the Big Bash League in December.
The contract changes show how New Zealand Cricket is trying to balance international cricket with the growing number of opportunities available to players in T20 leagues around the world. NZC will need to carefully manage its players as the national team enters a busy international season.