Black Caps' Mark Chapman gives up central contract to play in Australia

Black Caps batter Mark Chapman has opted out of a central contract with New Zealand Cricket to pursue opportunities overseas.

Chapman has made the decision to shift to a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket to allow him to play in this summer's Big Bash in Australia.

Chapman remains available for selection for the upcoming India tour of New Zealand alongside the four other casually contracted players in Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert.

The men's competition in the Big Bash starts in early December.

"The upcoming India series is one all us players are really excited for, and I'm committed wholeheartedly to performing in that series," Chapman said in a statement.

Chapman, 32, has played 150 white ball internationals for New Zealand.

His shift means Northern Districts fast bowler Matthew Fisher earns his first ever central contract and completes the list of 20 players for the 2026-27 season.

"With the heavy schedule of cricket coming up, notably the Test matches against India, Australia, and Sri Lanka, we know we'll need good depth in our fast-bowling stocks," selector Gavin Larsen said.

"Matt is someone able to bowl that express pace which is extremely valuable to the balance of any side, so we're excited to have him on the central contract list."

Fisher, who has featured in all three formats for New Zealand, recently took a career-best ODI figures of 3/40 against the West Indies.

The first match of the India tour is on 22 October.