Santner Rejects Big Bash Contract to Stay Focused on New Zealand Duty
Mitchell Santner turned down a two-season Big Bash offer so he can keep captaining New Zealand’s white-ball sides and stay on a central contract.
By SportCricket Desk · 9 Sep 2026 · 2 min read
New Zealand’s white-ball captain Mitchell Santner has declined a Big Bash League offer, choosing to concentrate on his international commitments.
An attractive offer
The 34-year-old was reportedly offered a deal worth six figures a year over two seasons. He conceded it was a good package and that he thought about it, but said the schedule ahead pointed him elsewhere. New Zealand have home white-ball and Test series against India and a Test tour of Australia, and Santner felt there was still a role for him even if he did not play every Test.
Captaincy a deciding factor
Santner also wants to keep leading his country. Staying on a central contract helps secure his availability for domestic and international fixtures while allowing him to remain captain. He pointed to a World Cup next year and a T20 World Cup in New Zealand the year after, saying he wished to be part of both.
Others take different routes
Several team-mates have chosen differently. Devon Conway and Lockie Ferguson have taken casual contracts, which give them more freedom to play overseas leagues while staying available for New Zealand. Mark Chapman has signed a one-year Big Bash deal.
Santner’s choice puts his leadership role and international duties first as New Zealand head into an important stretch of their calendar.
