Chapman steps down from New Zealand central contract to play in Big Bash

Mark Chapman has stepped down from New Zealand Cricket's (NZC) full-time central contract to play in Australia's popular franchise tournament, the Big Bash League (BBL). He will continue to play for New Zealand on a casual contract for the 2026-27 season.

New Zealand Cricket said Chapman has made the decision to take advantage of the opportunity to play in the Big Bash. He will be able to play in New Zealand's white-ball series against India in November before heading to Australia for the BBL, which starts in December this year.

Commitment to the national team

Despite leaving his central contract, Chapman's responsibilities to the New Zealand national team are not changing. He will be available for selection in the upcoming series against India.

Chapman said he is grateful to New Zealand Cricket for its cooperation and support throughout his career. There is a lot of interest among the team's players about the series against India and he is fully prepared to give his best in that series.

Others on casual contracts

Before Chapman, New Zealand's Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert also went on casual contracts to retain their opportunities to play in various franchise cricket, including the Big Bash. With Chapman's addition, there are a total of five players on this list for the 2026-27 season.

Matt Fisher gets a place on the central contract

With Chapman's departure from the central contract, a place has been left vacant on the New Zealand Cricket contract list. Northern Districts pacer Matt Fisher has been given a central contract for the first time in that place.

The New Zealand Cricket selectors have said that it is important to have enough options in pace bowling with a busy schedule ahead against India, Australia and Sri Lanka. The board believes that Fisher's speed can be an additional strength for the team.

Chapman's new chapter in the BBL

Chapman's participation in the Big Bash League 2026-27 season paves the way for more opportunities in franchise cricket as well as his international cricket. However, he will continue to play in important international series for New Zealand.