The problems around the list of central contracts continues to grow in New Zealand, with the revelation that all-rounder Jimmy Neesham has turned his back on a deal.
Neesham was originally left off the list of contracted players and has since signed deals to play in T20 competitions around the world in the coming months.
Cricket New Zealand have however recently released Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme from their contracts though, with the former wanting more family time and to hit the T20 circuit, while de Grandhomme retired from the international game after a baffling series of events surrounding his BBL signing.
De Grandhomme was picked up by the Adelaide Strikers during the BBL draft, with the club citing his full availability as a reason why, however, Cricket New Zealand reacted 24 hours later suggesting de Grandhomme was a centrally contracted player and had made no approach to the board to play in the Australian-based tournament.
The all-rounder then decided to retire from international cricket, paving the way for Neesham to be offered a contract.
Neesham decided to honour the contracts he has already signed however, turning his back on the nation.
"I know the news of my decision to decline a central contract today will be seen as me choosing money over representing my country," Neesham posted on an Instagram story.
"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 will spend the summer in South Africa, provided he gets picked up in the auction for the new domestic competition.
Blair Tickner and Finn Allen have since been upgraded to deals for the Black Caps, who are scheduled to have a busy next six months, which includes the T20 World Cup, home series against India, England and Sri Lanka, and trips to both India and Pakistan.
