Veteran batter Martin Guptill has joined the likes of pace bowler Trent Boult and all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme to turn his back on the New Zealand Cricket (NZC) central contract in order to pursue playing opportunities elsewhere.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Guptill was released from the playing contract this year, with him now set to seek opportunities in domestic white-ball competitions around the world.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Despite the fact that Guptill didn't feature for New Zealand during their Men's T20 World Cup campaign in Australia or in the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against India, the 36-year-old said he is not ready yet to retire from international cricket and is still hopeful of winning selection for his country in the future.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"Playing for my country has been a massive honour, and I'm grateful to everyone within the Black Caps and New Zealand Cricket for their support," he was quoted as saying by ICC.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"But, equally, I'm realistic enough to understand the need to consider my options in the current circumstances. With this release, I'm still available for New Zealand, I have the chance to explore other opportunities, and I also get to spend more time with my family -- which is important."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Guptill is currently New Zealand's leading run-scorer in T20I cricket and third-highest in the ODI format and New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said the experienced opener is released from his contract with their blessing.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
White emphasised that there would be no guarantees for Guptill in future international selection and that players with central or domestic contracts will now be favoured when selecting sides.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"We understand Martin's position," White said. "He's been a fantastic batsman for us for a long period of time, and we certainly don't wish to stand in his way as he explores other opportunities.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
White emphasised that there would be no guarantees for Guptill in future international selection and that players with central or domestic contracts will now be favoured when selecting sides.<\/p>\r\n\r\n