Tom Latham expects NZC ‘to be pretty fluid’ with player contracts

After New Zealand’s elimination from the T20 World Cup, star cricketer Kane Williamson decided to resign as captain and also opted out of the central contract. The 33-year-old wanted to play more franchise cricket but he also vouched to represent New Zealand whenever required. Meanwhile, Williamson is not the only New Zealand cricketer to have opted out of central contracts. Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson and Adam Milne, too, have done the same, which made things a bit tough for New Zealand.

Tom Latham, who is likely to be lead the BlackCaps in ODIs, noted the recent trend and stated that cricket is going in a different route in New Zealand. He mentioned that whenever the senior cricketers return, it will be interesting to have them in the squad, especially in major tournaments, but until then, he expects NZC to be fluid as far as the contracts of the players are concerned.

Also Read: New Zealand cricket announces jam packed summer schedule

“(I) Think at the moment, where cricket's going in New Zealand is slightly different. It's certainly not a black and white situation, and certainly changing with all these leagues popping up. Guess everyone is in a slightly different boat in what their future may look like depending on their age or stage they are in life,” Latham was quoted as saying as ESPNcricinfo.

“We've got a lot of cricket in the summer (and) got an ICC pinnacle event (the Champions Trophy) which is exciting to look forward to. So whether it be with different personnel, whether it be with the guys we are used to having, whenever we can have them I'm sure that will be great, but think we've certainly got to be pretty fluid with what things look like in the future,” he added.

Latham talks about captaincy prospect

In the absence of Williamson, Latham has stepped in time and again and has done a commendable job. Speaking about taking up the role on a full-time basis, Latham said it would be an honour for him and will put his team first always, whether he leads or not.

“It would obviously be a real honour. For me, it's always been about trying to put the team first as best as possible, and I'm sure they'll have those discussions around what they want from a team point of view and certainly, if I get the opportunity to do that it would be really special,” Latham said.