Key Takeaways
- New Zealand batter Mark Chapman has opted for a casual contract for the 2026-27 season.
- He will play in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) while remaining available for international selection.
- Chapman will participate in the upcoming limited-overs series against India before heading to Australia.
New Zealand batter Mark Chapman has chosen to play in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) on a casual contract for the 2026-27 season, according to a statement from the country’s cricket board (NZC).
This move allows Chapman to participate in the lucrative T20 league while still being available for national team duties.
Chapman, who has made 129 white-ball appearances for New Zealand, will first feature in the upcoming limited-overs series against India, scheduled to take place in November.
The decision to opt for a casual contract is part of a broader strategy by NZC to retain key players in high-paying leagues, with other players like Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, and Tim Seifert also opting for similar arrangements.
Chapman expressed his excitement about the upcoming series against India, stating, “The upcoming India series is one all us players are really excited for, and I’m committed wholeheartedly to performing in that series.”
His move off the central contract list has opened the door for fast bowler Matt Fisher, who has been awarded a full contract for the first time.
The casual contract system is designed to balance the financial benefits of playing in T20 leagues with the need to maintain national team availability, ensuring that key players can contribute to both domestic and international cricket.
NZC’s decision to implement this system reflects the growing importance of T20 cricket in the global cricket landscape, where players can earn significant sums while still being available for national teams.
The upcoming India series is one all us players are really excited for, and I’m committed wholeheartedly to performing in that series.
Mark Chapman, New Zealand batter
