New Zealand go for youth

Jesse Ryder is among the 20 players to be handed central contracts by New Zealand

New Zealand Cricket has handed uncapped Aaron Redmond and youngsters Daniel Flynn, Jesse Ryder and Tim Southee central contracts for the 2008/09 season.

The quartet of all-rounders boast just one Test and six one-day international appearances between them, but have been included in the squad for the tour of England, which begins later this month.

The list of players handed contracts, which commence from June 1, shows significant change from the previous season.

Craig Cumming, Mathew Sinclair, Michael Papps, Matthew Bell and the retired Stephen Fleming have stepped down.

James Marshall returns to the list after two years out, and Iain O’Brien maintains his place after replacing Shane Bond mid-season.

"Contracts are awarded to the 20 players who have the greatest likely future value to the Black Caps in the next 12 months," said New Zealand manager Lindsay Crocker.

"Players who have missed out on contracts can play their way into the Black Caps through domestic performances and can expect to pick up Major Association contracts."

New Zealand Cricket contracted players: Daniel Flynn, James Franklin, Peter Fulton, Mark Gillespie, Gareth Hopkins, Jamie How, James Marshall, Chris Martin, Michael Mason, Brendon McCullum, Kyle Mills, Iain O'Brien, Jacob Oram, Jeetan Patel, Aaron Redmond, Jesse Ryder, Tim Southee, Scott Styris, Ross Taylor, Daniel Vettori.