Could New Zealand's Rookie Bevon Jacobs Shine in the T20I Tri-Series Against Zimbabwe?
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Synopsis
In an exciting announcement, New Zealand has called up rookie Bevon Jacobs and seasoned bowler Adam Milne for their T20I Tri-Series against Zimbabwe and South Africa. This marks a significant opportunity for Jacobs to debut and for Milne to bolster the bowling attack. Will they shine in the series?
Key Takeaways
- Bevon Jacobs could debut for New Zealand in the T20I Tri-Series.
- Adam Milne returns to strengthen the bowling attack.
- The series is crucial as it marks New Zealand's first visit to Zimbabwe since 2015.
- Strong performances from other players like Finn Allen and Tim Seifert are anticipated.
- New head coach Rob Walter has a challenging task ahead.
Wellington, June 27 (NationPress) - New Zealand has announced the inclusion of uncapped batter Bevon Jacobs and seasoned bowler Adam Milne in their 15-member squad for the upcoming T20I Tri-Series against South Africa and the host nation, Zimbabwe. The 23-year-old Jacobs stands out as the sole uncapped player in this experienced team, led by Mitch Santner, and is poised to make his debut for the Black Caps.
This marks New Zealand's first senior men's white-ball tour to Zimbabwe since 2015, featuring matches at the Harare Sports Club starting July 16. The top two teams will advance to the final scheduled for July 26.
Jacobs was initially called up for the T20 series against Sri Lanka in December but did not get a chance to play. He has recently returned from a stint with the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Milne, with 53 T20I appearances, has not represented the Black Caps since November but has showcased his skills with the Texas Super Kings in America’s Major League Cricket (MLC), taking 9 wickets for 96 runs in his first four matches.
He will enhance the pace bowling lineup alongside the ICC’s top-ranked T20I bowler Jacob Duffy, along with Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, and Zak Foulkes.
Henry, who recently won the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal, is making a comeback after recovering from a shoulder injury sustained during the ICC Champions Trophy, where he was the leading wicket-taker.
Unavailable for selection are pace bowlers Ben Sears (side injury), Lockie Ferguson (load management), and Kyle Jamieson, who is awaiting the birth of his first child.
Jacobs will be supported in the batting lineup by explosive openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert, both of whom excelled in the home T20I series against Pakistan in March.
Allen recently set a T20 world record for the San Francisco Unicorns (MLC) by hitting 19 sixes in a single innings, scoring a remarkable 151 runs off just 51 balls.
Seifert was New Zealand's leading run-scorer in the series against Pakistan, amassing 249 runs at an average of 62, including a personal best of 97* off 38 balls.
Ish Sodhi, New Zealand’s second-highest T20I wicket-taker, will join Santner as the other specialist spinner in the squad.
Kane Williamson opted out of selection.
This tour will mark the first assignment for incoming head coach Rob Walter with the Black Caps, accompanied by batting coach Luke Ronchi, bowling coach Jake Oram, and James Foster, returning as a fourth coach.
New Zealand T20 squad:
Mitch Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.
Point of View
I believe that New Zealand's selection reflects a strategic blend of youth and experience. The inclusion of Bevon Jacobs is a bold move that could pay off, while Adam Milne's return adds depth to the bowling attack. The upcoming series will be a critical test for the team, and we stand firmly behind our national side.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Bevon Jacobs?
Bevon Jacobs is a 23-year-old uncapped batter selected for New Zealand's T20I squad for the Tri-Series in Zimbabwe.
When does the T20I Tri-Series start?
The T20I Tri-Series begins on July 16 and will feature matches against South Africa and Zimbabwe.
What is the significance of this tour?
This tour marks New Zealand's first senior men's white-ball visit to Zimbabwe since 2015, highlighting the importance of international exposure.
Who are the key players in the squad?
Key players include Mitch Santner (captain), Adam Milne, Finn Allen, and Ish Sodhi, among others.
Why was Kane Williamson not selected?
Kane Williamson made himself unavailable for selection for this tour.
