Nottinghamshire Bolster Squad with New Zealand Seamer Jacob Duffy as Relegation Battle Heats Up

Nottinghamshire have secured the services of New Zealand paceman Jacob Duffy in a bid to stave off relegation from Division One of the County Championship. The 30-year-old bowler, who boasts an impressive 12-year professional career, joins the East Midlands outfit for their final two red-ball matches of the season.

Duffy, a seasoned international with 14 T20 and six one-day international caps for New Zealand, has amassed 293 first-class wickets and brings valuable experience to a Notts side in need of a late-season lift. With just two games left, Nottinghamshire sit precariously third from the bottom of the Division One table, only 10 points ahead of Lancashire, who occupy one of the two relegation spots.

Speaking about the signing, Nottinghamshire head coach Peter Moores expressed his optimism over Duffy’s impact during this crucial period.

"Jacob is an exciting signing at a crucial time in the season for us," Moores said via the club's website. "His experience and skillset, particularly having played in England before, give him the ability to make a real difference in our remaining two games."

Duffy is no stranger to English conditions, having previously turned out for Kent in 2022. He will make his Nottinghamshire debut next week against his former club, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the fixture. The New Zealander will then play in the season finale at Trent Bridge against Warwickshire, starting on September 26.

With Nottinghamshire facing the intense pressure of avoiding the drop, Duffy’s ability to take wickets will be pivotal in helping the team secure their Division One status. His addition to the squad reflects the club's determination to fight for every point in what promises to be a nail-biting conclusion to the season.

For Nottinghamshire, Duffy’s arrival could be the final piece in their bid to beat the drop and finish the season on a high note.