Archive · 5 Oct 2026
Michael Bracewell Chooses Casual Contract to Pursue Big Bash Opportunity
Michael Bracewell is a New Zealand cricket player who bats and bowls.
He is changing from a central contract to a casual contract for the 2026/27 season.
That gives him a chance to pursue an opportunity in Australia's Big Bash League.
Bracewell says he still wants to play for New Zealand.
He will be available for the upcoming series against India.
He has played 105 times for New Zealand in international cricket.
Nick Kelly will take his place on the central contract list.
Other New Zealand players have also chosen casual contracts.
Michael Bracewell will move to a casual New Zealand Cricket contract for the 2026/27 season to pursue an opportunity in Australia's Big Bash League.
Bracewell said he remains committed to the Black Caps and available for national duty, including the upcoming India series.
The 35-year-old has made 105 international appearances for New Zealand across all three formats.
Batter Nick Kelly will replace Bracewell on New Zealand Cricket's central contract list and receive his first national contract.
Mark Chapman, Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert are also named as players who have chosen casual contracts.
- Who
- New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell; batter Nick Kelly will replace him on the central contract list.
- What
- Bracewell is moving to a casual contract to pursue an opportunity in Australia's Big Bash League.
- When
- The contract is for the 2026/27 season; Bracewell is also set to be available for the upcoming India series.
- Where
- New Zealand and Australia's Big Bash League.
- Why
- Bracewell said the opportunity was too good to pass up as a white-ball-only player.
- Contract period
- 2026/27 season
- Contract change
- Casual contract with New Zealand Cricket
- League opportunity
- Australia's Big Bash League
- International appearances
- 105 across all three formats
- Upcoming national duty
- New Zealand's white-ball series against India
- Central contract replacement
- Nick Kelly, who earns his first national contract
- Other players named
- Mark Chapman, Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert
