New Zealand Cricket announced on Monday that all-rounder Michael Bracewell will move to a casual contract for the 2026-27 season as he pursues an opportunity in Australia’s Big Bash League.

Bracewell, 35, has played 105 times for New Zealand across formats. He joins Mark Chapman, Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne and Tim Seifert in the casual contract system, which lets players take up lucrative T20 league deals while remaining available for national duty.

‘As a white-ball only player, this felt like too good of an opportunity to pass up,’ Bracewell said. ‘I’m still very much committed to the Black Caps and can’t wait to be involved in the upcoming India tour.’ He is expected to feature in the five-match T20I series against India later this month.

Batter Nick Kelly will replace Bracewell on NZC’s central contract list. Bracewell also has his eyes on the inaugural NZ20 competition set to begin next summer.