Canterbury Cricket has announced its first round of contracted players for the 2024/25 season, with a blend of continuity and fresh talent. The group remains largely unchanged from last season, highlighting the stability within the squad. Notable changes include Will O’Rourke’s elevation to a Blackcaps contract and Leo Carter’s departure from the region.

A new addition to the squad is Matt Rowe (18), who gains his first Major Association contract after moving to the region for university as a Lincoln University Scholarship recipient. Rowe was impressive at the most recent U19 Cricket World Cup, where he captured eight wickets, including a five-wicket haul against Afghanistan. Rowe’s inclusion is expected to bolster the team’s bowling options and add a youthful dynamic to the squad.

The 15 contracted players named today for the 2024/25 season are:

– Chad Bowes (Sydenham)
– Matt Boyle (Old Boys Collegians)
– Sean Davey (Old Boys Collegians)
– Zak Foulkes (Darfield)
– Mitch Hay (Burnside West University)
– Rhys Mariu (Ohoka)
– Kenny McClure (East Shirley)
– Cole McConchie (Riccarton)
– Angus McKenzie (Old Boys Collegians)
– Edward Nuttall (Old Boys Collegians)
– Michael Rae (Sydenham)
– Michael Rippon (Sydenham)
– Matt Rowe (Sydenham)
– Fraser Sheat (Sefton)
– Henry Shipley (Darfield)

A 16th contracted player will be announced on Monday 29 July. The players come together in September ahead of the season’s start in October and coach Peter Fulton is excited for what’s ahead “Each new season brings opportunity and excitement. We have a settled group and look forward to Matt adding to the environment. We want to challenge for trophies and believe we have the group to do so”.

The season commences with the Ford Trophy getting underway in mid-October.