New Zealand Cricket releases Martin Guptill from the centrel contract

New Zealand Cricket Board have released the veteran batter, Martin Guptill, from their central contract. The board has taken the decision after Guptill himself requested for the same.

The 36-year-old Guptill has become the 3rd player after Colin de Grandhomme and Trent Boult to have been released from the central contract.

Guptill hasn't been able to find a place in the playing XI even after being part of the squad for a while now. The reason for that is his current form and young players' consistent performances.

"We understand Martin's position. 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. Martin's been a giant of the white ball game, a committed and well-respected member of the Blackcaps, and has earned the right to play out his career on his own terms. He leaves his contract with our best wishes" NZC Chief Executive David White said in an official statement.

"Playing for my country has been a massive honor, and I'm grateful to everyone within the Blackcaps and NZC for their support. 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," Guptill said in a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) statement.

Martin Guptill who is the third-highest run-getter in T2OIs has had a remarkable career but has been going through a rough patch for a while now.

He didn't even get a place in the playing XI in any of the matches during T2O World Cup and the same thing happened during the series against India.

Guptill who has scored a double century in ODI has scored 2586 in 47 Test matches and 7346 runs in 198 ODIs for New Zealand. He also has 3531 to his name in 122 T2OI matches only behind Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

The reason behind Martin Guptill, Trent Boult, and Colin de Grandhomme getting released from the central contract is believed to be their wish of playing in several leagues all around the world.

They most likely want to be part of BBL and other foreign leagues. It is also expected that they have been in touch with a few franchises prior to which they decided to get released from the central contract