James Franklin has extended his contract with Wellington in an attempt to regain his place in the national side.

Franklin together with Neil Broom, Daniel Flynn and Ian Butler did not have their New Zealand contracts renewed for the 2010/11 season, leaving the quartet to ponder their international futures.

With Irish grandparents, Franklin could potentially abandon his Black Caps career in order to secure his future with his county Gloucestershire as an Irish passport would mean he would not fill one of only two spots for international players.

However, the all-rounder has decided to remain true to New Zealand for the time being, signing a new contract with state side Wellington.

"James is disappointed about missing out on a New Zealand contract, but he has indicated that he is hugely motivated to play well for Wellington where his experience and ability with both bat and ball would be a huge asset," Wellington coach Anthony Stuart said in a statement.

"He's focused on making the New Zealand team to play in the ICC one-day World Cup in India in February and March," Stuart added.

Stuart's thoughts were echoed by Cricket Wellington chief executive Gavin Larsen who has no doubts that Franklin will be an asset for the team.

"James has a point to prove to the New Zealand selectors and my hope is that he delivers big-time for us on the park and forces his name in to World Cup calculations," said the former Black Cap.

Franklin has begun the English county season well, topping the run-scoring averages for Gloucestershire in all three formats of the game while also contributing with valuable wickets.