Jimmy Neesham's Childhood Coach Died During World Cup Final Super Over

New Zeland all-rounder Jimmy Neesham‘s childhood coach James Gordon breathed his last moments after his ward struck a maximum in Super Over of the ICC World 2019 final against England. The hosts defeated the Black Caps by Super Over boundary count at the Lord’s Cricket Ground last Sunday.

Neesham pays tribute to his childhood coach

Meanwhile, New Zealand lost their second chances of lifting the coveted trophy after losing two consecutive World Cup finals. England stumbled early on chasing 241 runs set by New Zealand, batting first on a double-paced Lord’s wicket. But an outstanding 100+ run partnership from Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler for the fifth wicket to take the game deep. But New Zealand bounced back with a few wickets and luck going against them, England managed to secure a tie taking the game to the Super Over.

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Ben Stokes once again starred in the Super Over helping the host posts 15 runs before the Black Caps put up the exact score banking on Jimmy Neesham as England took away the trophy on the Super Over boundary count. James Gordon’s daughter Leonie said the moment Neesham hit a six on the second ball in the Super Over on Monday morning (New Zealand time) while chasing England’s score of 15; her father stopped breathing.

Jimmy Neesham, who had a great World Cup but failed to help New Zealand lift the trophy paid tribute to his childhood coach James Gordon. Gordon coached Neesham, Lockie Ferguson and many other high school students during his stint for more than 25-years as a teacher.

“Dave Gordon, my High School teacher, coach and friend. Your love of this game was infectious, especially for those of us lucky enough to play under you. How appropriate you held on until just after such a match. Hope you were proud. Thanks for everything. RIP,” Neesham tweeted.

Dave Gordon, my High School teacher, coach and friend. Your love of this game was infectious, especially for those of us lucky enough to play under you. How appropriate you held on until just after such a match. Hope you were proud. Thanks for everything. RIP

— Jimmy Neesham (@JimmyNeesh) July 17, 2019