James Neesham opens up on declining New Zealand Central Contract

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has suffered another casualty as star all-rounder Jimmy Neesham has declined the New Zealand central contract. The Kiwi joins the likes of Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme, who had declined a central contract earlier. Jimmy Neesham wasn’t offered a contract initially and hence, decided to commit to various T20 tournaments.

The Kiwi was eventually offered the central contract after two spots were vacated due to the departure of Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme last month. But since Neesham wasn’t part of the plans of the New Zealand board initially, he committed his future to different global T20 leagues and has decided to honour that decision instead of signing the recently offered central contract.

The veteran all-rounder posted an Instagram story regarding his decision and clarified that he was eager to sign the central contract in July, which never came his way, and thus ‘committed to other leagues around the world’. He stated that it wasn’t about the money but rather about honoring his commitments.

“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 honor those commitments rather than go back on my word to re-sign with NZ Cricket,” Neesham posted on an Instagram story.

Playing for the Blackcaps has been the greatest honour of my career: Jimmy Neesham

He further stated that representing the Blackcaps ‘has been the greatest honour of my career’, and he will continue with his current commitment to the national team. Known for his humor and banter on social media, Neesham concluded his post with a cheeky remark on compatriot Mitchell Santner’s face.

“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,” he added.