Mark Chapman Transitions to Casual Contract for BBL Participation

New Zealand cricketer Mark Chapman has shifted to a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket, allowing him to participate in the upcoming Big Bash League. He remains committed to the white-ball series against India before heading to Australia. Meanwhile, fast bowler Matt Fisher has been elevated to the central contract list, strengthening the team's pace-bowling depth ahead of a busy international schedule. This transition highlights the strategic moves by NZC as they prepare for significant upcoming matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 8, 2026, 09:18 IST

Mark Chapman Shifts to Casual Deal for BBL

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 series against India scheduled for November before heading to Australia for the BBL in December. The specific franchise he will join in the BBL is yet to be announced. 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 explore opportunities in the BBL during New Zealand's home summer.

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

Chapman's involvement in the BBL coincides with New Zealand's Test tour of Australia. However, he has not played first-class cricket since 2024 and has yet to make his Test debut for the Black Caps. He was included in New Zealand's Test squad for the 2024 tour of India but earlier this year opted out of Test consideration when NZC finalized its initial contract list.

Matt Fisher Promoted to Central Contract

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 depth due to the demanding Test schedule against India, Australia, and Sri Lanka. "Given the heavy cricket calendar ahead, particularly the Test matches against India, Australia, and Sri Lanka, we recognize the need for strong 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 the balance of any team, so we are thrilled to have him on the central contract list."

Fisher has made one Test appearance for New Zealand, facing Zimbabwe in 2025, in addition to playing three ODIs and one T20I.

As Chapman focuses on the upcoming India series, he will also prepare for his BBL stint, while NZC continues to manage its resources in anticipation of a busy international schedule.