ZIM Tri-Series 2025: 'Family chat was full of jokes about which team they were supporting' - Bevon Jacobs reacts after debut against country of birth

Bevon Jacobs was born in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. He moved to New Zealand at the age of three. On Wednesday, July 16, the right-handed batter made his international debut for New Zealand against his country of birth

Jacobs, who was roped in by Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, even before receiving his maiden international call-up, shared how special it was for him to make his debut for the Black Caps. The 23-year-old also mentioned how his family members joked about which team they were going to support as New Zealand faced South Africa at the Harare Sports Club in Harare.

"It's one of those moments you dream of as a kid. To finally stand there next to my teammates and hear the national anthem, with my family in the crowd, it was very special," Jacobs said after the match

"Our family chat was full of jokes about which team they were going to support. It was funny, but also really special, like a full circle moment," he added.

Jacobs forged a crucial 103-run partnership off 63 balls with Tim Robinson for the sixth wicket to help New Zealand get to 173/5 in their 20 overs. The former finished unbeaten on 44 off 30 deliveries, hitting one four and three sixes.

"I was always nervous at the start, but Robbo was great out there. We communicated well and built the innings together," he said.

Bevon showed great awareness and calm: Tim Robinson

Top-order batter Robinson, who starred with an unbeaten knock of 75 runs off 57 balls, lauded Jacobs' awareness and calm on debut.

"For a guy playing his first international, Bevon showed great awareness and calm. He didn't look rattled at all," the 23-year-old mentioned.

After beating the Proteas by 21 runs in their opening fixture, the Kiwis will now square off against hosts Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club on Friday, July 18.