New Zealand All-Rounder James Neesham to Take a Break from Cricket

New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham has decided to take a break for an undetermined period from cricket.

The 27-year old Neesham got axed from the first XI by Otago Volts coach Rob Walter for their December 27 Twenty20 Super Smash clash against Auckland in Alexandra due to poor form.

Since then, Neesham has been on a break from the game, as he eyes to get refreshed. After two weeks off, Neesham is back to his basics and working on his game.

Spokesman Callum Elder said New Zealand Cricket initially agreed Neesham would take a break from cricket to freshen up after Otago dropped him.

“He is talking to Otago, and they will work through a potential return,” Elder said.

However, Neesham did not want to comment when contacted. The all-rounder had a poor run in the Super Smash scoring just 18 runs in three innings while taking five wickets at 24.80. His economy rate with the ball was an issue, going at 11.23 an over. Otago has also struggled in his absence and is at the bottom of the table.

Neesham was a crucial member of the Black Caps at the Champions Trophy last June but got left out of the subsequent tour of India. Coach Mike Hesson wanted Neesham to dominate the domestic cricket in both the departments.

“We know Jimmy is a talented player, but we’ve spoken with him around improving the consistency in all areas of his game,” Hesson stated.

With Neesham out and Corey Anderson recovering from an injury all-rounder, Collin De Grandhomme has returned to the squad for the last three ODI’s against Pakistan.

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