Mark Chapman Transitions to Casual Contract with New Zealand Cricket Ahead of BBL

Mark Chapman has transitioned from a full-time contract to a casual agreement with New Zealand Cricket, allowing him to participate in the upcoming Big Bash League. He remains committed to the national team for the white-ball series against India in November. This shift opens a spot for fast bowler Matt Fisher on the central contract list, as New Zealand prepares for a busy international schedule. With a focus on strengthening their pace-bowling depth, selectors are optimistic about the team's prospects in the upcoming matches. Read on to learn more about Chapman's journey and the implications for New Zealand Cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 8, 2026, 09:33 IST

Mark Chapman Shifts to Casual Contract

Wellington, New Zealand - On September 8, it was announced that New Zealand cricketer Mark Chapman has transitioned from a full-time contract to a casual playing agreement with New Zealand Cricket (NZC). This change comes as he prepares to participate in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL) later this year, as reported by a sports news outlet.

Chapman will be available for New Zealand's white-ball matches against India scheduled for November before heading to Australia for the BBL in December. The specific franchise he will join in the BBL has not yet been disclosed.

The 32-year-old joins fellow New Zealand players Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, and Tim Seifert, who are also on casual contracts, allowing them to take part in the BBL during New Zealand's home summer.

Expressing gratitude, Chapman stated, "I appreciate the support from New Zealand Cricket throughout my career. The upcoming series against India is one that all players are eagerly anticipating, and I am fully committed to excelling in that series."

Chapman's BBL involvement coincides with New Zealand's Test tour of Australia. However, he has not participated in first-class cricket since 2024 and has yet to make his Test debut for the Black Caps.

Earlier this year, he opted out of Test ranking considerations when NZC released its initial contract list, despite being called up for the Test squad during the 2024 tour of India.

With Chapman's exit from the full-time contract roster, fast bowler Matt Fisher has been promoted to the central contract list.

New Zealand selector Gavin Larsen emphasized the importance of bolstering their pace-bowling resources, especially with a demanding Test schedule against India, Australia, and Sri Lanka on the horizon. "Given the intense cricket calendar ahead, particularly the Test matches, we recognize the need for depth in our fast-bowling lineup to enhance the Black Caps' chances of success," he remarked. "Matt possesses the express pace that is crucial for any team's balance, and we are thrilled to have him on the central contract list."

Fisher has previously played one Test match against Zimbabwe in 2025, along with three ODIs and one T20I for New Zealand.

As Chapman gears up for the India series, he is also looking forward to his upcoming stint in the BBL, while NZC continues to strategically manage their player resources in anticipation of a busy international calendar.