Jimmy Neesham becomes second latest Kiwi to decline a central contract

Neesham opted out of the central contract [PC: Twitter]

Jimmy Neesham has declined a central contract after not being included in the original list.

The last few weeks haven't been very good for the New Zealand men's team. Following the loss against England in the three match Test series, New Zealand pacer Trent Boult had withdrawn his name from the central contract list. The left arm quick stated he made the decision keeping in mind the busy international schedule and taking out time for his family. 

Now following the suit after Boult is all rounder Jimmy Neesham, who has also declined a central contract after he was not included in the original list. The southpaw was offered a contract after Trent Boult and fellow all rounder Colin De Grandhomme were released from the list.

Meanwhile young wicket keeper batter Finn Allen and medium pacer Blair Tickner have received their first central contracts.

Not the end of the road for Neesham

However, this does not mean the end of the road for the thirty one year old. He can still be available for the team selection as and when he makes himself available. Boult too played in the recent series against Australia

Neesham's withdrawal will surely be a big blow to the New Zealand side as the all rounder was one of the most important members of the limited overs side. He played a key role in New Zealand reaching the 2019 World Cup finals and also the T20 World Cup in 2021.

Also Read: Colin de Grandhomme announces retirement from international cricket