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Eight players awarded NZC development contracts for 2021-22

Women's CricZone Staff

24 Aug 2021

New Update

Eight players awarded NZC development contracts for 2021-22 — Claudia Green © Getty Images

New Zealand Cricket has announced Women’s Development Contracts for eight upcoming players, including Molly Penfold and Claudia Green, for the 2021-22 season.

Gabby Sullivan, Kate Anderson, Bella Armstrong, Sarah Asmussen, Fran Jonas and Nensi Patel have also been awarded the development contracts. Sullivan and Anderson were a part of the New Zealand squad during the home series against England earlier in February but did not get a game.

Speaking about the contracts, Sullivan said that she has been working her back off since the England series, adding, "so it is really nice to get the recognition for the hard work I have put in."

Green, who is a part of the New Zealand contingent currently touring England for three T20Is and three ODIs, along with Penfold, said that she is thrilled to receive the contract.

“I loved my experience with the New Zealand XI last season. I am looking forward to spending more time on my game thanks to this contract,” she said.

Sullivan said that it is exciting to be in a position to cut back on work commitments and channel her focus into cricket. “I am looking forward to getting stuck in with my Development Contract. I know the hard work is only just starting,” she added.

Ant Sharp, the head of Women’s High Performance, said that it's great to see the newly contracted group already familiarising themselves with the team environment.

“To have Claudia and Molly part of the White Ferns squad touring England shows the Women’s Development Contracts are creating a pathway to the highest level,” he said.

“These contracts give up-and-coming female cricketers a chance to learn, grow and develop not only as players but as people too. Part of the criteria for these contracts is picking players with the potential to earn White Ferns contracts in the future.”

Canterbury Magicians leg-spinner Sarah Asmussen said that she is appreciative of the relief the contracts would provide. "Last summer, I worked two jobs, studied and played for the Magicians; this year I won't need to have such a big workload,” she said.

Development Contracts 2021-22: Kate Anderson, Bella Armstrong, Sarah Asmussen, Claudia Green, Fran Jonas, Nensi Patel, Molly Penfold, Gabby Sullivan

Nensi Patel Kate Anderson Sarah Asmussen Bella Armstrong Gabby Sullivan Fran Jonas Claudia Green Molly Penfold