Conway re-enters the group of fully contracted players after spending the last two years on a casual playing agreement, which allowed him to compete in franchise leagues globally. His return is timely, with a busy Test schedule ahead for New Zealand in the coming year.
“Blair has put in tremendous effort over the last few years and has elevated his game,” commented head coach Rob Walter in a statement released by NZC.
Tickner has been recalled following a series of outstanding performances in various formats for both the Central Stags and the national team.
“We need to keep fostering depth in our bowling line-up, especially with a heavy schedule of red-ball cricket in the next year, so having Blair on a full-time contract will support that depth.”
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter also expressed his support for Conway’s full-time commitment, particularly in light of former captain Kane Williamson’s retirement.
“Devon has consistently been a part of the team across all three formats, even while on a casual contract, so it’s fantastic to have someone of his caliber back on the list, particularly with so much exciting cricket ahead.”
In order to make room for these additions, Adithya Ashok and Muhammad Abbas were removed from the contract list. New Zealand Cricket also announced that Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman have requested to be contracted as white-ball specialists.
New Zealand central contract list: Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will Young.
