Ben Matthew Wheeler is a talented cricketer from New Zealand who has made a name for himself as a pace-bowling allrounder. Born on July 24, 1990, in New Plymouth, New Zealand, Wheeler comes from a cricketing family with his grandfather having represented Canterbury.
With an early exposure to the game, Wheeler’s skills developed rapidly, and he represented New Zealand at the Under-19 Indoor Cricket World Cup, showcasing his immense talent. The following year, in 2010, he was selected to play for New Zealand in the Under-19 World Cup, a testament to his abilities and potential.
Wheeler made his first-class debut at a tender age of 18, donning the Central Districts jersey in March 2010. His entry into professional cricket was met with much anticipation, and he did not disappoint. As a young player, he demonstrated his bowling prowess, consistently delivering impressive performances on the field.
In 2014, Wheeler’s hard work and determination paid off when he was selected for the New Zealand squad during their tour of England. He was called upon to replace the injured Trent Boult in the third game of the series, marking his One Day International (ODI) debut. Despite the pressure, Wheeler rose to the occasion, displaying his remarkable talent by securing three crucial wickets for 63 runs.
Buoyed by his successful debut, Wheeler continued his international career, playing two ODIs in Zimbabwe and South Africa later that year. However, despite his promising performances, he was overlooked for the New Zealand squad for the prestigious World Cup.
Undeterred by this setback, Wheeler remained focused and determined, constantly improving his game and proving his worth in domestic competitions. In December 2016, his consistent performances garnered attention, and he was selected for New Zealand’s 14-man T20 squad for their series against Bangladesh. This opportunity was a testament to his hard work and perseverance and further solidified his place in the national cricket scene.
Ben Wheeler’s bowling is his primary weapon, known for his ability to swing the ball and trouble even the most skilled batsmen. With excellent control and variations, he consistently poses a challenge to opposing teams. In addition to his bowling prowess, he has proven himself as a capable batsman and is known to contribute valuable runs when required.
Despite his relatively short international career, Wheeler has left a lasting impression with his remarkable skills and dedication to his craft. He continues to be a valuable asset to his domestic team, Central Districts, and remains on the radar of the national selectors.
Off the field, Wheeler is known for his humility and down-to-earth personality. He values hard work, discipline, and teamwork, qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to his success in the cricketing world.
As Wheeler’s career progresses, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate his future achievements and contributions to the New Zealand national team. With a solid foundation, immense talent, and a tireless work ethic, there is no doubt that this promising cricketer has a bright future ahead of him.
