James Neesham Named As Overseas Replacement For Hobart Hurricanes

Kiwi all-rounder James Neesham is all set to feature in his first stint in the Big Bash League as an overseas replacement for Hobart Hurricanes for the 12th edition of the BBL.

He joins the likes of the big Tim David, Ben Mcdermott, and Riley Meredith. Neesham will further lengthen the middle order and provide additional firepower along with Tim David and Shadab Khan.

The middle-order Kiwi batter declined a central contract from New Zealand Cricket in September in order to compete in global T20 leagues. Neesham has scored 688 runs at a strike rate of 159.62 for New Zealand in T20IS and has the experience of playing around the globe.

Jimmy jumps aboard the 'Cane train. 🚂

The international firepower we need. 🔥

See here: https://t.co/WdbSKMNe5r#TasmaniasTeam #BBL12 pic.twitter.com/4W1d114lfa

— Hobart Hurricanes (@HurricanesBBL) December 6, 2022

“A lot of people say Tasmania is a bit like a mini New Zealand” – James Neesham

New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham seemed mighty excited to join the BBL side for the very first time this year.

“I’m really excited to be involved with the Big Bash for the first time this year. I’ve heard great things about the Hurricanes setup, and the list this year looks incredibly strong, so to be able to play even a small part in what I hope will be a successful tournament for the franchise is a really great opportunity for me,” James Neesham was quoted saying in an official statement by the Hobart Hurricanes.

“A lot of people say Tasmania is a bit like a mini New Zealand, so I’m looking forward to getting over there, meeting the guys, and playing the role that is asked of me for the team,” the Kiwi all-rounder added.

Hobart Hurricanes have failed to lift the BBL trophy in the previous seasons and will be hoping to break this in the upcoming edition of the BBL.

Hobart Hurricanes Squad for BBL 12: James Neesham, Asif Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Caleb Jewell, Shadab Khan, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Mitch Owen, Joel Paris, Wil Parker, D’Arcy Short, Matthew Wade, Billy Stanlake, Paddy Dooley, Chris Tremain, Mac Wright, Zak Crawley (replacement for Shadab Khan)