The upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 has taken an interesting turn with New Zealand making a significant adjustment to their squad. Jacob Duffy, a talented fast bowler from Otago, has been selected as a replacement for Ben Sears, who suffered a hamstring injury. This change adds depth to New Zealand’s pace attack, bringing in Duffy’s unique skills to the team.
Jacob Duffy: A Rising Talent
Jacob Duffy may not be a household name globally, but he is well-known within New Zealand’s cricket circles. Born on August 2, 1994, Duffy began his senior career with Otago at just 17 years old in 2012. He quickly made a name for himself, becoming one of Otago’s top wicket-takers by the end of the 2017–18 Plunket Shield season with 29 wickets in eight matches. His success continued in the 2018–19 Ford Trophy, where he led Otago’s bowling charts with 25 dismissals in 11 matches.
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International Career Highlights
Duffy’s international debut was highly impressive. He made his T20I debut against Pakistan in December 2020, taking 4/33 and earning the Player-of-the-Match award. This marked a significant milestone as he became the first player from Southland to represent New Zealand since Jeff Wilson in 1993. After sporadic appearances, Duffy secured his first central contract in 2024, solidifying his place in the national setup. Recently, he was awarded the Player of the Series in a three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, capturing 8 wickets at an average of 8.25.
Bowling Style and Technique
Jacob Duffy is recognized for his ability to swing the ball both ways and extract bounce, making him a valuable asset for New Zealand. While not among the fastest bowlers, he consistently delivers in the 130–140 km/h range, combining pace with sharp movement off the pitch. Early in his career, Duffy faced challenges with his bowling action, but through diligent practice and technical adjustments, he has refined his skills.
Outlook for the Champions Trophy 2025
The Champions Trophy 2025 presents an ideal platform for Duffy to showcase his talents. If he finds his rhythm, he could be a game-changer, posing challenges even to the world’s top batters. His inclusion in the New Zealand squad adds an exciting dimension to their pace attack, potentially making a significant impact in the tournament.
