New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has revealed its central contract list for the 2025–26 season, introducing four fresh faces, including Pakistani-born all-rounder Mohammad Abbas. This marks the first central contract for Abbas, along with wicketkeeper-batter Mitch Hay, all-rounder Zac Foulkes, and leg-spinner Adi Ashok.
Notably, seasoned players like Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Ajaz Patel, and Josh Clarkson have not been offered contracts this year. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing with Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, and Lockie Ferguson for short-term agreements.
Mohammad Abbas caught attention with a record-breaking 52 off 26 balls on his ODI debut against Pakistan in March — the fastest fifty on men’s ODI debut — and also took his maiden wicket by dismissing Mohammad Rizwan.
Mitch Hay, aged 24, made headlines with an unbeaten 99 off 78 balls in an ODI versus Pakistan and set a T20 world record by taking 6 wickets on debut against Sri Lanka.
Zac Foulkes debuted in T20Is against Pakistan and later played ODIs, while Adi Ashok impressed with a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh A.
New Zealand Cricket CEO Scott Weenink hailed the inclusion of these promising youngsters as a positive sign for the future, praising their talent, spirit, and ambition to represent their country.
NZC stated that the contract selections were made using detailed performance data and aligned with the upcoming busy calendar, especially with the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in view.
