In a stunning display of talent, Jacob Duffy clinched the prestigious Sir Richard Hadlee Medal at the 2026 New Zealand Cricket Awards, capping off a remarkable season where he took 25 wickets in Tests at an impressive average of 16. His performance included three five-wicket hauls across just four Test matches, solidifying his reputation as one of the premier bowlers in the game.
“Jacob’s durability, consistency, and ability to take wickets in pressure moments made him the most complete bowling performer of the season,” remarked Sir Richard Hadlee, a testament to Duffy’s exceptional skills on the field.
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 highlighting his dominance in the sport this year.
Meanwhile, Amelia Kerr continued her remarkable streak by winning the Debbie Hockley Medal for the fourth consecutive time. She topped New Zealand’s T20I run charts with 354 runs at an average of 70, underscoring her status as a dominant force in women’s cricket.
Debbie Hockley praised Kerr, stating, “Quite simply, we’re talking about a dominant force in every facet of the game, and one of the most influential players in women’s cricket history.” This sentiment reflects the growing recognition of women’s contributions to the sport.
Other notable winners at the awards included Tim Seifert, who was named Men’s T20I Player of the Year, and Daryl Mitchell, who took home the title of Men’s ODI Player of the Year. 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.
The 2026 New Zealand Cricket Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the collective growth and talent within New Zealand cricket. As the cricketing community reflects on this season, the anticipation for what lies ahead is palpable.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding future tournaments and player selections, but the accolades received by Duffy and his peers suggest a bright future for New Zealand cricket.
