Michael Bracewell Opts Casual Contract [Source: AFP]In a significant development, experienced New Zealand allrounder Michael Bracewell has switched to a casual contract for the 2026-27 season. While the spin-bowling all-rounder has kept himself available for the BlackCaps, the casual contract will allow him to explore opportunities in the Big Bash League during New Zealand's home season. New Zealand Cricket has announced Nick Kelly as Michael Bracewell's replacement in the annual central contract list. Michael Bracewell switches to casual contract, relishes playing for New ZealandOn Monday, October 5, New Zealand Cricket confirmed that Michael Bracewell has switched to a casual contract ahead of the 2026-27 home season. New Zealand are set to host India for a multi-format series comprising 5 ODIs and T20Is as well as two Test matches. In his statement, Bracewell thanked NZC for allowing him to opt for a casual contract and fuel his career in franchise leagues, particularly in the upcoming Big Bash League season. The swashbuckling left-hander, who also bowls handy off-spin, revealed that he would be keen to participate in the upcoming white-ball series against India if given a chance. “The backing from New Zealand Cricket for me to take this opportunity at this stage of my career means a lot,” Bracewell was quoted as saying by NZC. Also Read: ETPL Stars Who Can Be Picked In IPL 2027 Auction“As a white-ball only player, this felt like too good of an opportunity to pass up. I’m still very much committed to the BLACKCAPS and can’t wait to be involved in the upcoming India tour and future white-ball series. I’ve also got my eyes firmly fixed on the opportunity to be involved in the inaugural NZ20 which is set to be introduced from next summer," he added. Michael Bracewell becomes the sixth New Zealand player after Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Tim Seifert and Mark Chapman to become a casually contracted player for the 2026-27 season. NZC rope in Nick Kelly as Bracewell's replacementThe New Zealand Cricket announced Nick Kelly as Michael Bracewell's replacement in the central contract list for 2026-27. He is a left-handed batter who also bowls left-arm off-spin. Kelly has played 8 ODIs and 7 T20Is for New Zealand, amassing 265 and 97 runs, respectively. Nick Kelly recently had a blockbuster English domestic season, where he slammed 950 runs, including 302 in the England One-Day Cup, 405 in the County Championship and 243 in the T20 Blast. Also Read: Hardik Pandya Return Reportedly Delayed, Mukesh Kumar Spell– October 4 Cricket Highlights
