New Zealand Central Contract 2024-25: Rachin Ravindra Among 20 Players Handed Contracts by NZC

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Rachin Ravindra rewarded following his breakthrough season after the young all-rounder was named among 20 players to be offered central contracts by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) for the 2024-25 season.

ICC Emerging Player of the Year for 2023, Ravindra was a revelation for the Black Caps, making 578 runs at Cricket World Cup 2023, before a strong home summer capped off by a double century in World Test Championship action against South Africa.

"Growing up you'd see those contract lists come out each year and think it would be cool to be on that list one day - and for it to eventuate now is a pinch-myself moment," Ravindra said upon receiving his offer as quoted by ICC.

"It's been a really cool past 12 months playing international cricket. I've learned a lot and the hunger is definitely there to keep improving and giving to the Black Caps.

"It's such a special group to be in, from players to support staff - and that's been the most enjoyable part, to be honest. Playing a game you love with your mates for a living is something very special, and I hold it close to my heart," the opener added.

Apart from Ravindra, bowlers Ben Sears, Will O'Rourke and Jacob Duffy have also been offered deals in the proposed 20-player contract list, with red-ball specialist spinner Ajaz Patel also being offered a contract after missing out in the last cycle.

Sears enters the central contract group after featuring in 11 T20Is for the Black Caps in the last 12 months, claiming 13 wickets. He then made a Test debut against Australia in March, before travelling as a reserve in New Zealand's recent T20 World Cup campaign.

O'Rourke made his first international appearances in all three formats across the last year, standing out in his first Test with match figures of 9/93 - the best match figures by a New Zealand man on debut.

Duffy earns his contract after taking part in 20 white ball matches for his country, while Patel earns his recall ahead of a busy Test period for New Zealand, in which the Black Caps take on Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and England.

As reported earlier, former skipper Kane Williamson as well as pacers Lockie Ferguson and Adam Milne have opted not to be part of the central contract in the new cycle.

Williamson, who stepped down as New Zealand's white-ball skipper after their T20 World Cup campaign, however, has been offered a casual playing contract for the 2024-25 season after reaffirming his commitment to the team.

Blair Tickner also missed out on a central contract, with the retiring Neil Wagner also off the list. Despite not being in the list, players can still appear for the national side in the next season. Here is a look at the NZC cenrally contracted players list:

New Zealand Central Contract 2024-25 List

1. Finn Allen
2. Tom Blundell
3. Michael Bracewell
4. Mark Chapman
5. Devon Conway
6. Jacob Duffy
7. Matt Henry
8. Kyle Jamieson
9. Tom Latham
10. Daryl Mitchell
11. Henry Nicholls
12. Will O'Rourke
13. Ajaz Patel
14. Glenn Phillips
15. Rachin Ravindra
16. Mitchell Santner
17. Ben Sears
18. Ish Sodhi
19. Tim Southee
20. Will Young