New Zealand fast bowler Adam Milne has made a remarkable comeback to the national team as he receives a central contract from New Zealand Cricket (NZC) for the first time in five years. Milne, 31, impressed the selectors with his performances in 16 white-ball matches during the last season and is now a potential candidate for the upcoming 50-over World Cup in India later this year.
Black Caps head coach Gary Stead expressed his admiration for Milne’s dedication and perseverance over the past few years, which has earned him this contract offer. Stead stated, “Adam’s worked exceptionally hard and has shown good resilience over the past few years to be in a position to earn this contract offer. He’s always been a top-class bowler, and we were impressed by his consistent contributions in the recent home summer and tour of Pakistan.”
The NZC has released a 20-man contract list for the 2023-24 season, which includes Milne as a notable addition. However, there is one prominent absence in the form of left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel. Despite being the third bowler in Test cricket history to claim all 10 wickets in an innings, Patel played only two Tests last year and failed to secure a spot in the white-ball teams.
The trio of Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, and Martin Guptill are also missing from the contract list. All three players had previously requested to be released from NZC contracts to participate more frequently in franchise cricket worldwide. However, NZC has clarified that Boult has committed to being available for the Black Caps for part of the playing program and has thus been offered a casual playing agreement.
The central contracts for the 2023-24 season feature a talented group of players, including Finn Allen, Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Blair Tickner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, and Will Young.