“As it stands, Colin is a centrally-contracted player and has not requested a release,” an NZC spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo. “We’re now in discussions with Colin to find the best possible way forward.”
There was initial surprise at de Grandhomme’s name being announced because he had not been on the final list of 332 players circulated earlier in the week ahead of the draft. However, ESPNcricinfo understands that he had nominated himself before the cut-off last Sunday though his final paperwork took more time to come through, and so CA weren’t able to confirm his name in the list.
“We think he complements our squad perfectly,” Gillespie said. “We feel with our squad and what will complement our local players most effectively is someone that can bat in the middle, offer some overs and is good in the field. He’s very experienced and has played a lot of cricket all around the world. Colin was high in our thinking. We’re absolutely delighted we’ve managed to get him.”
And even if he wasn’t selected, de Grandhomme would still require a No Objection Certificate from NZC. Centrally-contracted players are also expected to make themselves available for the domestic Super Smash tournament, which runs through January.