New Zealand batter Mark Chapman has opted to shift to a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket for the 2026-27 season as he looks to pursue an opportunity in the Australian Big Bash League. The decision means Chapman will no longer be part of New Zealand’s central contract list for the upcoming season.
However, Mark Chapman remains available for selection for New Zealand’s upcoming home series against India. He will join the other casually contracted players, Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert, as the BLACKCAPS prepare for a busy home summer.
Mark Chapman opts for BBL, shifts to casual New Zealand contract
Chapman’s decision to move away from a central contract comes at a time when New Zealand are set for an extremely demanding international schedule. The BLACKCAPS will begin their home summer with India’s tour, which includes five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests between October 22 and December 1.
The schedule will also feature a four-Test tour of Australia before New Zealand host Sri Lanka for three ODIs, three T20Is and two Tests from January.
Despite choosing the BBL opportunity, Mark Chapman has made it clear that his international commitments remain important. He is available for the India series and will continue to represent New Zealand when selected.
Chapman has been an important white-ball player for New Zealand in recent years. He has played 37 ODIs and 113 T20Is, scoring 1,057 and 2,074 runs respectively. His T20I record includes one century and 10 half-centuries.
His move also opened a place on New Zealand Cricket’s central contract list. Northern Districts fast bowler Matthew Fisher has been handed his first central contract, taking the total number of BLACKCAPS under central contracts to 20.
I’m thankful to New Zealand Cricket for their support – Mark Chapman
Chapman expressed his gratitude to New Zealand Cricket for supporting him throughout his career while stressing his commitment to the upcoming India series.
“I’m thankful to New Zealand Cricket for their support now and throughout my career. The upcoming India series is one all us players are really excited for, and I’m committed wholeheartedly to performing in that series.”
The decision allows Mark Chapman to explore an overseas domestic opportunity while retaining his availability for New Zealand cricket. His presence could therefore still be important during a home summer in which the BLACKCAPS face three major international opponents.
Matt Fisher has impressed with the opportunities he’s had for the BLACKCAPS – Gavin Larsen
Fisher’s promotion comes after his recent performances for the BLACKCAPS. The Northern Districts quick has featured across all three formats and recently recorded career-best ODI figures of 3/40 against the West Indies, helping New Zealand secure only their second ODI series victory in the Caribbean.
New Zealand Cricket’s selection management believes his pace can provide valuable depth during the heavy Test schedule.
“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 to give the BLACKCAPS the best chance of success,” Gavin Larsen stated.
“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.”
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