Apart from January Williamson would remain available for selection. Players who are contracted by NZC need to be available for both the country and the domestic Dream11 Super Smash competition.

“Pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer,” Williamson said. “My life outside cricket has changed however – spending more time with my family and enjoying experiences with them at home or abroad is something that’s even more important to me,” he added.

NZC CEO Scott Weenink said the Blackcaps prefer to select nationally contracted players however, they are willing to make an exception in the case of Williamson. “we’re happy to make an exception for our greatest ever batter – especially as he remains so committed to the team,” Weenik said.

Williamson has represented New Zealand in 100 Tests scoring 8743 runs at an average of 54.99. He also has been a consistent performer in white-ball cricket. In 165 ODI’s he amassed 6811 runs at an average of 48.3 and in 93 T20Is he scored 2575 runs at 33.01.

In addition to Williamson in the statement released New Zealand Cricket it is also mentioned fast bowler Lockie Ferguson probably denying the central contract. “Ferguson has also indicated he won’t accept a central contract offer when the contracting process opens,” quoted the release.

“An announcement covering the final list of contract offers is likely next month,” the statement concluded. Recently retired left-arm seamer Trent Boult was the first big name to deny a national contract and play franchise league around the world while keeping himself available for ICC events for New Zealand.