Full Name: James Douglas Sheahan Neesham Date of Birth: September 17, 1990 Birthplace: Auckland, New Zealand Jersey Number: 50 Role: Batting All-Rounder (Left-Handed Batter, Right-Arm Medium Bowler) James Neesham, or “Jimmy Neesham” as he's affectionately known, is one of New Zealand cricket’s most enigmatic and beloved characters. Wearing jersey number 50, Neesham is the kind of cricketer who plays with flair, speaks with honesty, and lives life with a mix of intensity and humor. His journey is not just about runs and wickets — it’s a story of resilience, near-retirement, revival, and redemption. Born in Auckland, Neesham's early days in cricket showed he was naturally gifted. A strong left-hander with clean timing and the ability to bowl brisk medium pace, he quickly rose through the ranks. Representing Auckland and Otago in domestic cricket, his performances earned him a call-up to the national side in 2012. Neesham announced himself in style. On his Test debut against India in 2014, he smashed a brilliant 137 batting at No. 8*, the highest score on debut by a New Zealand No. 8. He followed it up with another century in his next Test, becoming the first Kiwi to do so in his first two matches. The cricketing world had found a bold new all-rounder. However, his journey was far from smooth. Injuries and inconsistency haunted him in the years that followed. Battling with form, fitness, and confidence, Neesham reached a point in 2017 where he considered walking away from cricket altogether. It was a low period, both physically and mentally, and few knew the struggle behind his usually jovial exterior. But Neesham didn’t give up. He found support in coaches and teammates, reshaped his mindset, and fought his way back. And in 2019, he returned to the global stage at the ICC Cricket World Cup — not just as a participant, but a hero. In that unforgettable World Cup final against England, Neesham bowled with fire, picked up key wickets, and then almost took New Zealand home in the Super Over. The image of him sitting on the ground, dazed after the heartbreaking loss, spoke to millions. He later tweeted, "Kids, don’t take up sport. Take up baking or something. Die at 60 fat and happy." That tweet, laced with pain and humor, became iconic — much like Neesham himself. Since then, he’s become a key figure in New Zealand’s white-ball squads. With bat or ball, he delivers impactful moments — quickfire 40s, game-turning wickets, or clutch death overs. His fearless approach and smart cricketing brain make him a go-to player in tight situations. Beyond the field, Neesham is sharp-witted, unfiltered, and very human. Whether it’s through social media or interviews, he’s known for telling it like it is — a rarity in modern sport. He’s also featured in various T20 leagues, including the IPL, CPL, and The Hundred, where his versatility is always in demand. James Neesham is a cricketer who’s fallen, risen, and laughed through it all. With jersey 50, he continues to play with passion, depth, and that unmistakable Kiwi spark — reminding fans that cricket is not just about numbers, but about heart.