New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has confirmed that five leading white-ball players will remain available for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Tim Seifert, and Kane Williamson have all signed casual playing contracts ahead of the global event in India and Sri Lanka.
These agreements guarantee the quintet’s involvement in the tournament and in a set number of series before it begins. While all five are available for matches against England and the West Indies, Williamson will sit out the series against Australia.
Why Casual Contracts Matter
Under the casual deal, the players will still enjoy full access to NZC’s high-performance resources. Chief Executive Scott Weenink stressed the importance of securing these stars ahead of a busy cricketing schedule.
“With such a pinnacle event on the horizon, we wanted to ensure our best T20 players were ready and available to push for inclusion,” Weenink said.
“The casual agreements are a commitment from the players to NZC and the Black Caps, and in return NZC will offer our full support to these players as part of our high-performance system,” he added.
Commitment to the Black Caps
Weenink also praised the players’ determination to represent their country at the highest level.
“The message from the players is that playing for the Black Caps is hugely important to them and I’m pleased we’ve been able to agree terms to have them casually contracted for the coming season,” he noted.
“Rob (New Zealand coach Rob Walter) and the team have a massive period of cricket ahead, home and away, and I know myself, along with all of our fans, can’t wait to follow and support,” he said.
With less than six months left for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand now has its core group firmly committed to the campaign.
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