Worcestershire County Cricket Club has secured the services of New Zealand international pace bowler Jacob Duffy for the initial part of the 2025 season. The 30-year-old, who has represented the Black Caps in eight One Day Internationals and 15 Twenty20 Internationals, recently received his first central contract with New Zealand.
Duffy is set to participate in six County Championship matches during April and May, starting after the opening match against Somerset, as well as at least one red-ball game in June. He is also contracted for eight Blast fixtures with the Rapids through the end of June.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Duffy remarked on the success of previous New Zealand players at Worcestershire and his desire to replicate that achievement. He noted his hope that his extended stay with the club would aid his development and emphasised his openness to learning, despite his experience. He shared his excitement about joining a team known for its strong spirit.
Worcestershire’s head coach, Alan Richardson, expressed his satisfaction with the signing, highlighting Duffy’s skills, experience, and character, all of which are essential for team cohesion. He acknowledged Duffy's track record in the County Championship and his impressive bowling capabilities, indicating that the club is eager to foster his growth while also benefiting from his contributions in both formats of the game. Duffy previously had stints with Kent and Nottinghamshire in domestic cricket in England.