The 2026/27 Auckland HEARTS contracts have been finalised, with the 13th and final spot awarded to all-rounder Jess Smith.

Smith, who earned her first contract in 2025/26, is no stranger to the HEARTS set-up but has yet to make her debut for the side. Nonetheless, her excitement about 2026/27 is palpable.

“Really excited to be contracted again and looking forward to the season ahead,” says Smith.

“Can’t wait to get stuck in and see what we can achieve this season.”

HEARTS Head Coach Donovan Grobbelaar sees Smith as an all-round talent with her best years still to come.

“We’re thrilled to have Jess back with us this year.

“We’re excited to continue investing in her growth and development, as we believe she has the potential to become an exceptional cricketer in the years to come,” says Grobbelaar.

The HEARTS enjoyed a solid season in 2025/26 despite the lack of silverware in the cabinet. They were beaten finalists in a nail-biting Super Smash final and finished third on the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield table.

The HEARTS have an enviable pool of players to choose from, with six contracted White Ferns. However, with international fixtures clashing with domestic matches this season, there will be plenty of opportunities for contracted HEARTS players to play, says Daniel Archer, Auckland Cricket’s General Manager – Performance & Talent.

“We continue to have great depth in our HEARTS group. Opportunities will present themselves right across the squad this season, with scheduled White Ferns commitments opening the door to opportunity for those ready to take it,” says Archer.

With the contract list now complete, attention will be focused on the season itself, which kicks off on 1 October when the HEARTS regroup for pre-season.

The first Hallyburton Johnstone Shield 50-over match is at home at Kennards Hire Community Oval on Saturday 14 November, against the Wellington Blaze.
 

2026/27 HEARTS Final Contracts

*Denotes new contract

Centrally Contracted HEARTS Players

Article added: Tuesday 25 August 2026