Rachin Ravindra Leads New Faces In NZ Cricket's Central Contracts For 2024-25

Rachin Ravindra has been recognised for his outstanding performance by being included in New Zealand Cricket's (NZC) central contracts list for the 2024-25 season. This young all-rounder had a breakthrough year, earning the ICC Emerging Player of the Year award for 2023.

Ravindra's impressive form saw him score 578 runs during the Cricket World Cup 2023. He also had a remarkable home summer, highlighted by a double century in the World Test Championship against South Africa.

"Growing up you'd see those contract lists come out each year and think it would be cool to be on that list one day - and for it to eventuate now is a pinch-myself moment," Ravindra said upon receiving his offer as quoted by ICC.

"It's been a really cool past 12 months playing international cricket. I've learned a lot and the hunger is definitely there to keep improving and giving to the Black Caps."

"It's such a special group to be in, from players to support staff - and that's been the most enjoyable part, to be honest. Playing a game you love with your mates for a living is something very special, and I hold it close to my heart," he added.

Besides Ravindra, bowlers Ben Sears, Will O'Rourke, and Jacob Duffy have also been offered central contracts. Ajaz Patel, a red-ball specialist spinner who missed out last cycle, has been included again.

Sears joined the central contract group after playing in 11 T20Is over the past year, taking 13 wickets. He made his Test debut against Australia in March and was part of New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad as a reserve player.

O'Rourke made his international debut across all three formats last year. He stood out in his first Test with match figures of 9/93, which are the best by a New Zealand man on debut.

Duffy earned his contract after participating in 20 white-ball matches for New Zealand. Patel's recall comes ahead of an important Test period where New Zealand will face Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and England.

Notable Absences from the Central Contract List

Former skipper Kane Williamson, along with pacers Lockie Ferguson and Adam Milne, have opted out of central contracts for this cycle. However, Williamson has accepted a casual playing contract for the 2024-25 season after reaffirming his commitment to the team.

Blair Tickner also missed out on a central contract. Retiring Neil Wagner is another notable absentee from the list. Despite not being centrally contracted, these players can still represent New Zealand in upcoming matches.

New Zealand Central Contract 2024-25 List

1. Finn Allen
2. Tom Blundell
3. Michael Bracewell
4. Mark Chapman
5. Devon Conway
6. Jacob Duffy
7. Matt Henry
8. Kyle Jamieson
9. Tom Latham
10. Daryl Mitchell
11. Henry Nicholls
12. Will O'Rourke
13. Ajaz Patel
14. Glenn Phillips
15. Rachin Ravindra
16. Mitchell Santner
17. Ben Sears
18. Ish Sodhi
19. Tim Southee
20. Will Young

The new central contracts reflect NZC's focus on rewarding emerging talent while maintaining experienced players' involvement through flexible arrangements.