New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham has opted to continue participating in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) for the Rajshahi Warriors, thereby missing the initial matches of the Black Caps' five-match T20I series against India. The series is scheduled to begin on January 21, 2026, and serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Neesham's decision stems from a request by Rajshahi Warriors head coach Hannan Sarkar. Acknowledging Neesham's importance to the team, Sarkar requested Neesham to stay with the team for the remainder of the BPL season. Neesham himself expressed interest in remaining with the Rajshahi Warriors.

To make this possible, Neesham contacted New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and secured a no-objection certificate (NOC). This allows him to remain in the BPL until January 23, the date of the BPL final. If Rajshahi Warriors qualify for the final, Neesham will miss at least the first two T20Is against India.

Hannan Sarkar expressed gratitude for Neesham's commitment to the Rajshahi Warriors. He highlighted Neesham's proactive role in managing the formalities, from communicating with NZC to arranging the NOC. Sarkar stated that Neesham would rejoin the national team immediately after the BPL final, should Rajshahi qualify.

Neesham has played four BPL matches for Rajshahi, since joining the team after playing for the Dubai Capitals in the International League T20. He has scored 30 runs and taken three wickets. Rajshahi Warriors finished the league stage at the top of the points table. They will face Chattogram in the first qualifier on January 20.

Neesham's decision has ignited the debate of league versus nation, especially with the T20 World Cup on the horizon.