Jesse Ryder won’t sign a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) contract this season, opting instead to work towards a number of health and fitness-related goals.

NZC chief executive David White says the decision follows Ryder’s annual player review on Wednesday, which he describes as pleasing.

Ryder last played for New Zealand in their second one-day international against South Africa in Napier on February 29, when he failed to score.

The 27-year-old, whose career has been dogged by disciplinary issues, was then dropped from the Black Caps squad after he and Doug Bracewell broke team protocol by going out drinking after the match while carrying injuries.

Ryder turned out for Pune Warriors in the recently completed Indian Premier League. He played in 11 matches, scoring 256 at an average 25 with a high score of 86.

White says Wednesday’s decision to opt out of an NZC contract was made by Ryder, his management, NZC and the New Zealand Cricket Players’ Association (NZCPA).

“All the evidence shows that Jesse is on the right track, both on and off the field, but we’re aware that there are still steps to be made,” he said.

“While cricket remains an important part of his life, it is his health and well-being that need to be the primary focus.”

Ryder wanted to concentrate on his personal goals without the media and commercial pressures of being a contracted player, White added.

“NZC and Cricket Wellington are committed to helping Jesse and he will continue to receive support from within cricket and from his own support network.”

NZCPA chief executive Heath Mills says the review was a success in terms of reaching the right outcomes for Ryder.

“We are pleased with the review process and the approach Jesse is taking,” Mills said.

“Jesse spoke positively about the things he wants to achieve and we are keen to support him.”