Top New Zealand players delay signing
Published:Thursday | July 9, 2009 | 9:20 AM
Some top players are delaying signing new contracts with New Zealand Cricket over concerns the team\'s international program next season will conflict with their lucrative roles in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The New Zealand Herald newspaper named wicketkeeper Brendon McCullum and all-rounder Jacob Oram, New Zealand\'s highest-paid players in the IPL, among players who were hesitant to sign contracts until dates for the next tournament had been released.
The newspaper said players were concerned New Zealand\'s home series against Australia in March and April next year may clash with the Indian 20/20 league.
McCullum currently earns up to $700,000 and Oram $675,000 to play in the IPL, although the amount players receive is based on the number of games they play.
New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan says players had until July 24 to sign contracts and he was confident all 20 players offered contracts last month would sign.