Michael Bracewell and Ajaz Patel have been offered New Zealand Cricket (NZC) contracts for the upcoming year, while Blackcaps all-rounder Jimmy Neesham is a surprise omission.
As NZC announced its 20-strong list of players contracted for the 2022-23 season, Bracewell has been offered a contract for the first time, after making his international debut in the Blackcaps' recent ODI series victory over the Netherlands.
Bracewell's rapid rise also saw him named as part of an extended 20-man Blackcaps squad to tour England next month.
Patel meanwhile will return to the contracted list, after missing out in 2021. The pair take the place of the recently retired Ross Taylor and Jimmy Neesham on the 20-strong list.
Players have until May 19 to accept or decline the offer.
Neesham's omission is a surprise, after cementing himself as one of the Blackcaps' premier all-rounders in white ball cricket.
The 31-year-old has played 66 one day internationals, and 38 Twenty20 Internationals, including a match-changing innings in New Zealand's World Cup semi-final victory over England last year.
But, thanks to COVID-19's effect on New Zealand's home summer and Indian Premier League commitments, Neesham hasn't played an international match on Kiwi soil since March 2021
"Finalising the list seems to get tougher by the year," coach Gary Stead said of the contracted players.
"The busy international calendar means we're calling on a wider base of talent these days and the likes of Michael Bracewell is testament to the depth of that talent.
"I'd like to congratulate all 20 players who have received a national contract offer for the coming season and wish those heading away this winter all the best.
"I'd also like to acknowledge Ross Taylor and his immense contribution to the Blackcaps over a long and successful career."
NZC contracted players: Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
