Mitchell Hay has established himself as an ever-reliable option behind the stumps at international level.

His form for Canterbury and the Black Caps over the past 18 months saw him be rewarded with one of New Zealand Cricket's central contracts for the 2025/26 season, which will increase Hay's resources to develop his craft all year round.

The 24-year-old thought he'd be a chance, but admits the phone call from then-Black Caps' coach, Gary Stead, was very exciting.

"I got a call while I was in Bangladesh for the New Zealand ‘A’ tour from Gary Stead. So that was cool," Hay says.

https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/1832/burnside-west-christchurch-university-cricket-club/blog/3184/mitch-relishing-making-hay-on-the-biggest-stage