Martin Guptill, along with Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme, has become the third Blackcap cricketer in recent months to ask for a release from his contract. Guptill, the third-highest run scorer in one-day and T20 cricket for New Zealand, has fallen out of favour with selectors, who chose to use rising star Finn Allen against India and at the recent World Cup in Australia. 

Guptill stated that he would still be available for selection by New Zealand, but that he was “realistic enough” to comprehend the necessity of considering his playing options.

“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,”

he said in a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) statement on Wednesday.

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“We understand Martin’s position, 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. 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.”

said NZC chief executive David White