Jimmy Neesham turns down New Zealand contract offer to honour franchise commitments

Two fresh places on the New Zealand contract list came up as a result of Colin de Grandhomme's international retirement and Trent Boult's request to be released from his central deal with NZC

Jimmy Neesham has turned down the offer of a central contract by New Zealand Cricket.

The allrounder cited commitments to T20 leagues around the world as a reason for his decision.

Neesham, who played a critical role in getting the Blackcaps to the 2021 T20 World Cup final, is still eligible for selection by the Kiwis.

The two fresh places on the New Zealand contract list came up as a result of Colin de Grandhomme's international retirement and Trent Boult's request to be released from his central deal with NZC.

^{Jimmy Neesham has declined the offer of a central contract from New Zealand [Getty Images]}

In a statement on social media, he said: "I know the news of my decision to decline a central contract today will be seen as me choosing money over representing my country.

"I had planned to accept a contract offer in July, however since being left off the list I have committed to other leagues around the world. It was a difficult decision but I have decided to honour those commitments rather than go back on my word to re-sign with NZ Cricket.

"Playing for the [Blackcaps] has been the greatest honour of my career and I remain committed to taking the field with my countrymen for the foreseeable future, especially in pinnacle world events."

Neesham is one of more than 300 players registered for the SA20 auction, which is due to take place on September 19.

^{Finn Allen has claimed one of two free spots on the Kiwis' roster [Getty Images]}

The two spots on the New Zealand roster have gone to Blair Tickner and Finn Allen. 

Head coach Gary Stead said: "Finn clearly has huge talent and potential. He's shown he's up to the international level in his limited opportunities to date. In particular, his match-winning 96 against West Indies on a difficult wicket in Barbados showed his class and maturity.

"[Tickner is] a bowler who just keeps improving and we've been particularly impressed with his red-ball development, which saw him in the recent squads for the England and South Africa Tests. He knows the environment, understands his role, and bowls with good pace and aggression."

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