Ahmedabad, Feb 12 (NationPress) Jacob Duffy is fully enjoying his inaugural ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the age of 31, after an impressive 2025 season that engraved his name in the annals of New Zealand cricket.

The pacer from South Island secured 81 wickets for the Black Caps last year, surpassing a New Zealand record that stood for 40 years, held by Sir Richard Hadlee. He has continued to showcase his talent at the T20 World Cup 2026, taking vital wickets in victories against Afghanistan and the UAE.

Duffy’s ascent to international cricket was not instantaneous. He had to wait until the age of 26 to debut, earning a Player of the Match title by claiming four wickets in a T20I against Pakistan. He attributes his patience as a significant factor in developing into a player who can perform well under pressure.

“There were numerous moments I wished to be in the team but wasn’t,” Duffy said, as reported by ICC. “I participated in many A tours, and when I finally got a consistent run of matches, that was incredibly important. I had played a game here and there throughout the years, but to play consistently, feel comfortable at that level, and prove to myself that I belong there is monumental. I’ve gathered 10 to 12 years of experience that has been invaluable. I understand my game thoroughly; I know my tactics and my action. I drew upon all those experiences during high-pressure moments in international cricket.”

“Sitting on the sidelines, not getting those matches, isn’t always pleasant, but those experiences prepared me when I finally got my chance. A significant part of it is proving to oneself that you are good enough. Many athletes discuss feelings of imposter syndrome and uncertainty about their capabilities. To repeatedly prove that you are, not just to dominate but to make a meaningful impact for New Zealand and hold your ground in various formats, is immensely rewarding,” he added.

Hailing from Lumsden, Duffy refined his skills bowling to his two older brothers on a backyard pitch constructed by their father with local Kakanui clay. He believes being the youngest sibling certainly accelerated his development. Off the field, he and his wife Natasha are gearing up to welcome their first child in mid-June.

On the cricketing front, Duffy is poised to complete both a World Cup campaign and his first season in the IPL with Royal Challengers Bangalore. He is keen to learn from Josh Hazlewood and share the dressing room with Virat Kohli, while also drawing insights from fellow Kiwi pacers Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and Kyle Jamieson.

“One of our greatest strengths is our camaraderie. We support one another effectively, each bringing unique attributes to the table. Even this week, I’ve been working on perfecting my away swing to left-handers. Kyle has consistently nailed those deliveries for the past five or six years, so he’s been assisting me in that regard.

“We are all good friends, helping each other out while enjoying the process. I am incredibly thankful for their companionship,” he expressed.

Having grown up watching World Cups, Duffy notes that being at the heart of the action is a dream realized.

“The 2015 World Cup was remarkable; it drew many people into cricket back home, creating a significant buzz. The pool match against Australia, where Kane Williamson hit a six on the last ball to win while we were nine down, and the semi-final against South Africa at Eden Park were unforgettable moments.

“I know individuals who attended that day, and they still claim they have never encountered a crowd with such energy. World Cups are extraordinary events, and these are the milestones you aim for throughout your career. It’s thrilling to be a part of it,” he concluded.