Posted by Blogger Name. Category:
Jimmy Neesham
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New Zealand
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Records
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Test Cricket
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West Indies
It's a test match that Jimmy Neesham wasn't even supposed to be playing. But a late shoulder injury saw him added to the New Zealand side to fill the key all-rounder role.
Neesham's test debut was memorable enough. He scored 137 not out in New Zealand's marathon second innings against India at Wellington, supporting Brendon McCullum through to a maiden test triple century. But yesterday he joined an elite group of batsmen who have scored centuries not only on debut, but in their sophomore test as well.
Here's the list that now bears Neesham's name:
Whilst we have no desire to see Jimmy Neesham end up like Mohammed Azharuddin, banned for life from cricket for match-fixing, there are some very good names on that list. Neesham's though stand out; he is the first to achieve the feat over two series against two different oppositions.
The New Zealand selectors now have a very good problem. They now have two quality all-rounders to fill the #6 batting position, and to bowl a quota of overs. As devastating a player as Corey Anderson can be, we reckon Neesham may be the long-term answer for test cricket. He is more technically correct, and paces his innings beautifully. Neesham is yet to make an impact with the ball, but it is early days in his international career.
There is a lot to like about the state of New Zealand cricket at the moment. We're really starting to develop some depth both in the batting and bowling ranks. The side is dominating the West Indies as we type this; the Windies are 118 for five, needing a further 190 runs to avoid the follow-on.
And as the wind blows and the run falls on a winter morning, it's great to wake up to test match cricket; our most enduring sporting love!
