Elliott is back amongst New Zealand’s list of centrally contracted players

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Following his heroics against South Africa in the World Cup semi-finals, New Zealand all-rounder Grant Elliott has become one of three additions to the list of centrally contracted players for the 2015-16 season.

Elliott scored an unbeaten 84 in the World Cup semi-finals and even hit the penultimate ball of the match for six to lead the Black Caps to their first ever World Cup final.

While New Zealand were unable to clinch their maiden World Cup as they lost to Australia by seven wickets, Elliott impressed once again as he top-scored with 83.

In addition to Elliott, New Zealand have also awarded central contracts to pace bowler Doug Bracewell and spinner Mitchell Santner.

“Mitch is a player of genuine all-round ability,” New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson said. “His appearance on this list is recognition of where we see his skills in all three forms of the game. My feeling is that we’ll see a lot more of him with the bat, in particular, as he gains more experience.

“Doug deserved to return. He’s performed strongly and forced his way back into the fold – ultimately in longer-form cricket, although we continue to see him as a multi-skilled player.”

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed that they opted not to renew the contracts of leg-spinner Ish Sodhi and batsman Colin Munro.

New Zealand central contract list for 2015-16: Corey Anderson, Doug Bracewell, Trent Boult, Mark Craig, Martin Guptill, Grant Elliott, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Mitchell McClenaghan, Brendon McCullum, Nathan McCullum, Adam Milne, Jimmy Neesham, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson