Kyle Jamieson Praised By New Zealand Head Coach For Skipping IPL

Kiwi coach Gary Stead has applauded Kyle Jamieson’s choice to opt-out of the Indian Premier League and is confident the seamer will have returned to his best for the visit to England.

While skipper Kane Williamson and a pile of Black Caps players are playing the money-making T20 competition, Kyle Jamieson declined to place his name on the IPL’s sale list to lay and work on his game at home.

Kyle Jamieson Has Worked Out What He Needs As A Cricketer: Gary Stead

As the second-most costly player in the 2021 auction, with Royal Challengers Bangalore marking him for about $2 million, the choice can’t have been a simple one for the 27-year-old Kiwi.

“I think it’s a very brave move for someone at Kyle’s age to make but he’s obviously had some experiences there and worked out what he needs as a cricketer,” said Stead.

“He wants to play obviously all formats for New Zealand if he can but test cricket being the pinnacle for him is really important for him. I congratulate him for looking after what he thinks he needs to do to play test cricket, first and foremost.”

Kyle Jamieson Looking Fit And Strong At The Moment

World test champions New Zealand included Jamieson and Williamson in an extended squad announced on Wednesday for the three-test visit through England beginning at Lord’s on June 2.

The 6ft-8in Jamieson burst onto the worldwide scene a long time back and immediately solidified himself in New Zealand’s pace attack.

He fought to impose himself in the drawn home series against South Africa, however, getting done with six wickets at an average of 33.

“I think he’ll be the first to say he just didn’t feel quite right last year and maybe through a workload issue as well,” said Stead.

“I guess we’re not going to know until we’ve seen him. He’s had a bit of a break. He’s looking fit and strong at the moment. So I’m excited to see what he’ll bring.”

Also Read: Kane Williamson Returns As New Zealand Name Test Squad For England Tour