Marshall declines NZC contract

Hamish Marshall has declined to accept a New Zealand Cricket contract for the 2007/2008 season in favour of playing county cricket in England as a local player.

Marshall will not be eligible to play for the BLACKCAPS while he is classified as a local player in England.

“NZC will now offer the contract to another player to be announced next week,” BLACKCAPS General Manager, Lindsay Crocker said.

“I spoke to Hamish about the decision earlier today. I believe he likely had a future with the BLACKCAPS, however I accept his reasons for pursing the certainty of a career in county cricket and wish him all the best.”

Marshall, is currently playing for Gloucestershire as an overseas player but is eligible to play in the English county competition as a local player as he holds an Irish passport.

New Zealand Cricket Players Association executive manager, Heath Mills, said Marshall made the decision as a means to securing his financial future. “Whilst this is disappointing from a BLACKCAPS perspective the NZCPA is supportive of Hamish and recognises the courage it has taken for him to reach this decision.”

“This has been the most difficult decision of my life. I have been extremely proud to represent my country during the last six years and have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my time in the BLACKCAPS,” Marshall said.

“I would like to thank the staff at NZC for their support of me over the years, particularly John Bracewell and the BLACKCAPS team management. They have created an excellent team environment that I have found very difficult to leave. I would also like to acknowledge the support I have had from my BLACKCAPS team mates, who it has been a pleasure to play alongside.”

“It is also important for me to acknowledge the unwavering support I have had from my family throughout my career with the BLACKCAPS and their support of the decision I have made today. I would also like to thank the many other people who I have talked to in recent weeks and who have helped me with my decision making.”

“This has not been an easy decision but I now look forward to the future and hope that I will still have opportunities to play in New Zealand before my career finishes.”

New Zealand Cricket Media Release