New Zealand’s versatile cricketer Jimmy Neesham has rejoined Janakpur Bolts for the third edition of the Nepal Premier League. Janakpur announced on Tuesday via social media the signing of the 35-year-old Neesham. In the inaugural 2024 season, Neesham played nine matches, scoring 247 runs and taking seven wickets, playing a crucial role in leading Janakpur to the championship.
On Tuesday, Janakpur confirmed through social media that they have contracted the 35-year-old Neesham, who was instrumental in their 2024 title-winning campaign. He amassed 247 runs across nine games at a strike rate exceeding 196 and an average above 35. His outstanding strike rate earned him the Best Strike Rate Award of the first NPL season.
During his debut season with Janakpur, Neesham also took seven wickets, providing significant support to the team while winning the hearts of fans. Janakpur CEO Niroj Khatiwada remarked, “Jimmy has earned a special place not only on the field but also in the hearts of our supporters. His dedication and association with Janakpur Bolts tell a beautiful story. The hero of our first championship season has now returned home.”
However, due to the absence of a ‘capped’ player quota for Janakpur in the second season, Neesham represented Pokhara Avengers, where he played four matches, scoring 99 runs—including a half-century—and took five wickets. This time, Neesham will play as a capped player for Janakpur.
Neesham has extensive international experience, representing New Zealand in 12 Test matches, 76 One Day Internationals, and 105 T20 Internationals. In February, he featured for New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final against India. He is also an active participant in global franchise leagues, having played in the Indian Premier League for Delhi Daredevils, Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Rajasthan Royals. Additionally, he has appeared in the Lanka Premier League, Vitality Blast, Bangladesh Premier League, UAE IL T20, Pakistan Super League, South Africa T20 leagues, The Hundred, Big Bash League, and Caribbean Premier League. Winning the title with Janakpur two years ago marked his first franchise cricket championship.
