Jacob Duffy has made headlines by winning the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal at the 2026 New Zealand Cricket Awards, showcasing his exceptional performance during the award season. Duffy’s remarkable achievement is underscored by his impressive tally of 25 wickets in Tests at an average of 16, which solidified his reputation as one of the leading bowlers in the game.
During the season, Duffy recorded three five-wicket hauls in just four Test matches, a feat that not only highlights his skill but also his ability to perform under pressure. Sir Richard Hadlee praised Duffy, stating, “Jacob’s durability, consistency, and ability to take wickets in pressure moments made him the most complete bowling performer of the season.”
In addition to the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal, Duffy was also honored with the Test Player of the Year award and received the Winsor Cup for first-class bowling, further cementing his status in New Zealand cricket.
Amelia Kerr, another standout at the awards, won the Debbie Hockley Medal for the fourth consecutive time, a testament to her dominance in women’s cricket. Kerr topped New Zealand’s T20I run charts with 354 runs at an average of 70, showcasing her prowess on the field.
Other notable winners included Tim Seifert, who was named Men’s T20I Player of the Year, and Daryl Mitchell, who took home the Men’s ODI Player of the Year award. Brooke Halliday was recognized as the Women’s ODI Player of the Year, while Henry Nicholls and Jess Kerr were named Men’s and Women’s Domestic Players of the Year, respectively.
This year’s New Zealand Cricket Awards not only celebrated individual excellence but also highlighted the rising talents within the sport, marking a significant moment for cricket in the nation. As Duffy continues to build on his success, observers are eager to see how he will perform in the upcoming seasons, with expectations high following his stellar achievements.
