Mitchell McClenaghan believes his chances of playing for the Black Caps again are slim, but New Zealand Cricket's more optimistic.

The Auckland fast bowler has secured a release from his New Zealand Cricket contract in order to play in the South African and Australian T20 competitions.

NZC high performance manager Brian Stronach said he can still make the Black Caps.

"Just because he's taken this T20 leave doesn't mean we can't pick him if we feel like he's performing really well. But, yes, one thing that we are developing in New Zealand now is a lot more depth."

McClenaghan said he understands "that by making this decision the chances of that actually happening may be slim, but these are some things you need to live with in life unfortunately."

He said he expects other Black Caps will be tempted to take up deals in lucrative Twenty20 leagues abroad.