Just a month after being signed by the Mumbai Indians in the IPL mega auction, New Zealand’s Bevon Jacobs has secured his first international call-up for the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka.
“It’s an exciting time for Bevon and his family,” said NZC selector Sam Wells. “He’s a talented player with immense potential. His power with the bat and solid technique in longer formats make him a promising addition to the squad.”
Who is Bevon Jacobs?
Born in Pretoria, South Africa, the 22-year-old moved to New Zealand with his family at the age of three. Jacobs is a dynamic middle-order batter who shone in the 2023-24 Super Smash, scoring 134 runs in six innings at an impressive strike rate of 188.73.
A Dream Come True
Jacobs admitted he initially missed the selector’s call.
“I missed the first call because it was an unknown number,” Jacobs shared. “When I finally picked up, I was shocked but thrilled. It’s the kind of news you dream about as a kid. The past month has been surreal for me and my family.”
Sharing his family’s reaction, Jacobs said, “My dad shed tears over the phone. It’s special because it’s something we’ve worked toward for years. The sacrifices my family has made make this moment even sweeter.”
IPL or National Call-Up?
When asked what surprised him more, Jacobs reflected, “Both were unbelievable. The IPL felt like a slim chance, but playing for the Blackcaps has always been my dream. Being able to share the field with legends is going to be incredible.”
New Zealand T20I and ODI Squads
T20I Squad:
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith
ODI Squad:
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Will Young
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New Zealand vs. Sri Lanka Series Schedule
T20I Series:
- 2nd T20I: Monday, 30 December – Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
- 1st T20I: Saturday, 28 December – Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
- 3rd T20I: Thursday, 2 January – Saxton Oval, Nelson
ODI Series:
3rd ODI: Saturday, 11 January – Eden Park, Auckland
1st ODI: Sunday, 5 January – Cello Basin Reserve, Wellington
2nd ODI: Wednesday, 8 January – Seddon Park, Hamilton
