(Getty Images/Youtube)
Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has expressed concerns over the increasing number of New Zealand cricketers opting to decline central contracts, suggesting that this trend could negatively impact international cricket.
Akmal noted that high-profile players such as Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, and Finn Allen have recently chosen to forgo central contracts with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) in favor of focusing on T20 leagues. He described this trend as troubling for both New Zealand cricket and the broader international cricket landscape.
Kamran Akmal warns that New Zealand players rejecting central contracts could harm the future of international cricket.
Lockie Ferguson had also turned down a central contract earlier, which Kamran Akmal has labeled as a concerning development for the sport. Akmal criticized this trend, viewing it as indicative of players prioritizing personal interests and franchise cricket over national duty and pride.
He suggested that New Zealand Cricket’s lack of decisive action on this matter has created a scenario where players may feel they can bypass central contracts while still engaging in international fixtures and participating in global league cricket.
Kamran Akmal said on his YouTube channel: “New Zealand players do not like to take the central contracts. And I saw that it is not good for international cricket. It is not good for any country. A player like Devon Conway refused to take the central contract. Finn Allen, who only plays T20 cricket, has left his NZC contract. He is saying that he will not take the annual contract.”
Akmal added, “Before that, Boult and Ferguson did not take the central contract. After the T20 World Cup 2024, Williamson has refused to take central contract. So, it is not a good sign for New Zealand. It means that they are playing international cricket only for enjoyment. They are not giving much importance to the pride of the country. So, this is not a good sign.”
This problem will be seen in other countries as well: Akmal
He voiced worries that if not addressed, this trend might extend to other cricketing nations. Kamran Akmal feels that stronger measures by New Zealand Cricket, especially after Boult’s decision, could have averted the current scenario.
Additionally, the veteran cricketer is concerned that this growing tendency to reject central contracts while still participating in various leagues could erode the competitive spirit of international cricket.
Kamran Akmal added, “This problem will be seen in other countries as well. When Boult refused to take the central contract, I think NZC should have taken strict action. That they would never bring him back to the international team. So, it is NZC’s mistake.”
The Pakistani cricketer further pointed out that players are aware they can still participate in international cricket despite declining annual contracts, as New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has not taken any disciplinary action. Consequently, these players are likely to continue engaging in league cricket while missing international series.
In conclusion, Akmal highlighted that with 5-6 players choosing not to accept NZC contracts, it poses a troubling sign for New Zealand cricket. He urged the board to implement stringent measures to preserve the integrity and pride of their cricket in an increasingly competitive landscape.
