“I’ve absolutely loved playing for Wellington over the last four years,” Neesham said. “I’m so proud to have been part of this team and am thankful to the group for welcoming me and seeing the vision we’ve wanted to create.

“We’ve had some serious fun and experienced some serious success, and I know that the most successful era of Wellington cricket isn’t over yet, so I wish the team all the best for the future.”

Neesham was instrumental in guiding Wellington to four domestic titles across three competitions – Ford Trophy in 2018-19, Plunket Shield in 2019, and back-to-back Super Smash titles in 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. Alongside, he also revived his international career, getting a New Zealand contract and playing vital roles in the 2019 ODI World Cup, and the 2021 T20 World Cup. New Zealand made it to the final of both tournaments.

“Jimmy has been an integral part of the Wellington Firebirds side that has experienced much success over the last four seasons,” Cricket Wellington CEO Cam Mitchell said.

“We’ve been so pleased to see Jimmy rediscover his love for the game since coming to Wellington and he has gone on to show that he is one of the most talented allrounders in the game of cricket.”