Jimmy Neesham’s high school coach passed away after the all-rounder hit a six in the Super-Over of WC Final

England and New Zealand played out the most thrilling World Cup final ever at Lord’s on July 14. Both the teams scored 241 runs in their allotted 50 overs and the match went to the super over. They scored the same number of runs in the super over as well only for the hosts to pip the opponents on the boundary count and win the trophy for the first time. The Kiwis were hard done with the absurd rules and their fans were in shock back home on Monday morning.

Jimmy Neesham was in the middle of the action in the super over and the southpaw had given a realistic chance for his team by hitting a six off Jofra Archer early. However, at the same time, the cricketer’s high school teacher Dave Gordon was battling with life and took his last breath after Neesham smacked a six in the super over.

“One of the nurses came in for the final over, the super over, and she said his breathing is changing. You know, I think Jimmy Neesham had just hit that six and he took his last breath,” Gordon’s daughter Leonie Gordon was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz.

Neesham pays tribute

Jimmy Neesham who was heartbroken after the World Cup final and put up a series of tweets in disappointments also paid tribute to his teacher on social media. “Dave Gordon, my High School teacher, coach and friend. Your love of this game was infectious, especially for those of us lucky enough to play under you. How appropriate you held on until just after such a match. Hope you were proud. Thanks for everything. RIP,” Neesham’s tweet read.

Leonie Gordon was also heartened to see Neesham’s tribute and said, “It was lovely, you know, he’s kept in touch with Jimmy and he is friends with Jimmy’s father. He always had a soft spot for Jimmy Neesham, he was very proud of him. He would definitely be following his career,” she further said.

Dave Gordon taught at Auckland Grammar for as many as 25 years where he coached a few young New Zealand cricketers as well and Lockie Ferguson was also one of his students.