Jimmy Neesham leaves Wellington Firebirds

New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham has left Wellington Firebirds after playing for four years and is now looking for an opportunity to play in his home side, Auckland Aces.

Neesham played for Otago before coming to Wellington and was very close to leaving cricket due to his form and injuries. He needed professional counselling to rediscover his love for the game. 

Neesham came back and joined Wellington Firebirds in the 2018-19 season. He had a 500+ runs season straightway in the Ford Trophy at an average of 62.87 and 13 wickets with the ball, which fetched him a place in the New Zealand side. He won the Plunket Shield in 2019 and two back-to-back T20 titles in 2020 and 2021. 

"I've absolutely loved playing for Wellington over the last four years," said Neesham.

"I'm so proud to have been part of this team and am thankful to the group for welcoming me and seeing the vision we've wanted to create. We've had some serious fun and experienced some serious success," he added. 

Speaking on behalf of the entire Cricket Wellington, CEO Cam Mitchell thanked Jimmy Neesham for his service to the Firebirds. 

"Jimmy has been an integral part of the Wellington Firebirds side that has experienced much success over the last four seasons. We've been so pleased to see Jimmy rediscover his love for the game since coming to Wellington, and he has gone on to show that he is one of the most talented all-rounders in the game of cricket." 

The 31-year-old played a crucial role in New Zealand's recent success in white ball cricket. However, the all-rounder has decided not to play domestic cricket for the Firebirds and showed his desire to play for his home side, Auckland Aces, returning to the club after more than eleven years.

"Having done seven years at Otago and now four years at Wellington, it's now come to the point where I am sort of looking for a bit more settled summer at home, I guess and returning to Auckland is what makes the sense for that," said Neesham.

"My main priority is still playing for New Zealand"

The Kiwi all-rounder has been left out from the NZC central contract list for the 2022-23 season and currently does not have a domestic contract. He is seeking an opportunity with Auckland and reaffirmed his commitment to New Zealand cricket as playing white ball cricket for his country remains his main priority.