The first round of fifteen (15) contracts have been offered to Otago Volts players today, as the squad shapes up for the 2021/22 season. In compiling the list of offers, an Otago Cricket contract review group, managed by Performance and Talent Manager Simon Forde, engaged coaching staff including new head coach Dion Ebrahim, Volt’s selectors and NZC High Performance staff to consider the agreed contract criteria as set out in the Master Agreement.

Performance & Talent Manager Simon Forde highlighted that the goal of the contracting period is always to improve squad on the previous years.

“Throughout our contracting process, Otago Cricket are always looking to improve on last season’s efforts. We have added some quality cricketers to an already outstanding group, and can’t wait for the 2021/22 season to get underway,” said Forde.

The contract group includes two new names - that of right-arm pace bowler, Angus McKenzie, and all-rounder Jake Gibson, who impressed in a handful of games for Northern Districts in the 2020/21 season.

Hailing from Takapuna Cricket Club in Auckland, 22-year-old McKenzie impressed selectors through performances throughout Otago’s ‘Men’s A’ programme, and for the Volts in the back half of the Plunket Shield & Ford Trophy competitions. Volts Coach Dion Ebrahim commented on McKenzie’s all-around ability.

“Angus showed last season that he has the ability to perform and contribute to success at this level and possesses skills with both bat and ball, which makes him an asset to our group. At just 22, he still has time on his side to develop into a class performer as he matures and learns his roles further within the team.” said Ebrahim.

Bowling all-rounder Jake Gibson burst onto the NZ Domestic Cricket scene with a 5-wicket haul on List-A debut for Northern Districts last year. He was a consistent performer in Northern Districts ‘Men’s A’ programme and will provide Otago with another right-arm bowling option. Coach Ebrahim commented that Jake’s ability to fill multiple roles within the squad made him an exciting prospect.

“He (Jake) can take both the new ball or be a first change option meaning he will compliment and bolster our bowling stocks across all formats. He has the attributes to become a fine all-rounder and is keen to make his mark with the bat. He will be an exciting addition into our environment” commented Ebrahim.

Otago fans will be ecstatic to see the return of Dean Foxcroft to the Volts contract list, however Dean’s contract is pending a Border Exemption Application through Immigration New Zealand. Otago Cricket have no control over this decision and will keep our fanbase updated at our earliest convenience.

One contract position remains open. Otago Cricket will submit its final contract offer to NZC and NZCPA on 27 June with this final offer accepted or declined on 7 July.

Otago Volts Contracts (2021/22)

First Round

• Matt Bacon
• Neil Broom
• Max Chu
• Jacob Duffy
• Dean Foxcroft
• Jake Gibson*
• Nick Kelly
• Anaru Kitchen
• Angus McKenzie*
• Jarrod McKay
• Dale Phillips
• Michael Rae
• Michael Rippon
• Mitch Renwick
• Hamish Rutherford

*Indicates new contract offer.

**Contract pending VISA application.

*ENDS*

Article added: Monday 21 June 2021

Please contact wkindley@otagocricket.co.nz directly for any media requests.