Hampshire Cricket has confirmed that New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the club after strong backlash from supporters. The decision comes just hours after the 34-year-old was named in Hampshire’s 15-member squad for the County Championship match against Warwickshire.
Hampshire had signed Kuggeleijn as an overseas replacement for Delano Potgieter, who joined the South Africa A squad. However, the move drew heavy criticism from supporters because of the New Zealander’s history. The club had included him in the squad without first making a separate announcement.
Hampshire Makes U-Turn Following Fierce Fan Backlash
The backlash began after Hampshire posted their squad on X without a separate announcement about Kuggeleijn's arrival. Supporters quickly criticized the decision, with some describing the signing as “shameful” and “a disgrace” and calling it “a new low” for the club.
Hampshire then reversed its decision and confirmed that Kuggeleijn would not represent the club. The club also thanked supporters for sharing their views and said its focus would now shift to the team's final four County Championship matches.
In an official statement, the county said: “Having reflected and listened to feedback from our staff and supporters, Hampshire Cricket can confirm that Scott Kuggeleijn will not represent the Club.”
“We value the passion of our fanbase and thank everyone who took the time to share their views. Our focus now turns to supporting the team through the final four County Championship fixtures of the season. We encourage everyone to unite behind the team as we enter a crucial stage of the campaign.”
A statement from Hampshire Cricket. pic.twitter.com/S2Zf6dyqZw
— Hampshire Cricket (@hantscricket) September 2, 2026
Scott Kuggeleijn’s Controversial Past Sparks Backlash
Scott Kuggeleijn faced charges of sexual violation by rape and indecent assault in 2015 involving two complainants. His first trial ended with a hung jury before he was acquitted in a second trial in 2017.
Despite the acquittal, he returned to professional cricket. His selection for New Zealand and domestic teams has led to protests from supporters on several occasions. In 2019, spectators at Eden Park displayed posters opposing his inclusion in the New Zealand team.
Kuggeleijn has continued to play domestic cricket for Northern Districts in New Zealand over the past decade. He has also represented the national team across Tests, ODIs and T20Is.
Hampshire’s decision also came at a difficult stage of their County Championship campaign. The club are currently at the bottom of Division One, 16 points behind Leicestershire, whom they are still scheduled to face later in the season.
Scott Kuggeleijn’s Cricket Record Across Formats
Scott Kuggeleijn has been a regular for Northern Districts in New Zealand domestic cricket and has built an impressive first-class record. The all-rounder has taken 379 wickets at an average of 29.86.
Kuggeleijn has also contributed with the bat, scoring 3,969 runs in first-class cricket, including four centuries and 20 fifties. His highest score is 142 not out. The all-rounder also recorded a 20-ball half-century in March 2025.
At the international level, Kuggeleijn has represented New Zealand in three Tests, two ODIs and 18 T20Is. He has taken 27 wickets across the three formats, including 16 in T20Is, while his Test career has produced six wickets.
