NEW DELHI: In a major development, the league-over-nation debate has intensified after a New Zealand star all-rounder James Neesham chose to stay back in Bangladesh for the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), opting to skip the Kiwis’ upcoming five-match T20I series against India starting January 21.
Neesham’s BPL team Rajshahi Warriors head coach Hannan Sarkar confirmed on Monday that the New Zealand all-rounder has informed the franchise of his decision to remain in Bangladesh for the remainder of the BPL.
The move means Neesham will forgo New Zealand’s upcoming T20I series against India, choosing instead to prioritize his BPL commitments over national duty with the T20 World Cup approaching.
πππππππ ππ πππππππ! π³πΏ”:”
Jimmy Neesham has officially extended his stay with the Rajshahi Warriors. π#RajshahiWarriors #BPL2024 #JimmyNeesham #WarriorSpirit #BangladeshCricket pic.twitter.com/Lvq6aKXeSyβ Rajshahi Warriors (@RajshahiW) January 19, 2026
Hannan Sarkar also clarified that Neesham’s decision was largely influenced by his association with the Rajshahi Warriors, adding that the New Zealand all-rounder would not have made the same choice had he been playing for a different franchise.
New Zealand Cricket had named Neesham in the 15-member squad for the upcoming T20I series in India. The all-rounder last played for New Zealand against West Indies in Dunedin.
However, NZC is yet to issue an official statement on Neesham’s availability or clarify his status for the India tour in light of the latest developments.
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