Michael Bracewell takes up casual contract with New Zealand with Big Bash League plans

By giving up the central contract, Bracewell intends to play in the Big Bash League in Australia.  | Photo Credit: AP

Kiwi all-rounder Michael Bracewell will take up a casual contract with the national team, announced New Zealand Cricket (NZC), through a statement on Monday.

By giving up the central contract, Bracewell intends to play in the Big Bash League in Australia. The 35-year-old highlighted that he intends to represent New Zealand in upcoming white-ball series.

“The backing from New Zealand Cricket for me to take this opportunity at this stage of my career means a lot,” said Bracewell.

“As a white-ball only player, this felt like too good of an opportunity to pass up. I’m still very much committed to the Blackcaps and can’t wait to be involved in the upcoming India tour and future white-ball series,” he added.

Bracewell joins Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, and Tim Seifert, as the other casually contracted New Zealand players for the 2026-27 season.

NZC also announced that top-order batter Nick Kelly will replace Bracewell in the central contract. Kelly has already represented New Zealand in eight ODIs and seven T20Is, having made his international debut in March 2025.