The wounds of World Cup 2019 title defeat to England are still fresh for the New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham, saying his first international outing since title clash in July against the same side at Wellington has brought back the heartbreaking memories of Lord’s on Sunday (November 3).

Since the World Cup final, Neesham has not played for New Zealand, though, featured in the T20 leagues in Canada and the West Indies, returned to the national squad for the second T20I of the five-match series against England on Sunday at Wellington.

The all-rounder received a warm welcome at Westpac Stadium and the left-hander also entertained his fans with a powerhouse knock of 42 which helped the Black Caps to register a 21-run victory in the second match to level the 5-match T20I series against England.

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Neesham told Stuff.co.nz, “I was almost thankful in the end not to be over there [the next tour in Sri Lanka] because I don't know how those Test guys got back into it so quickly. That World Cup will always be part of the fabric of my career but it's certainly not something I'm hoping defines my career.”

He added, “Don't think it's about getting over it, it's just accepting it. Obviously, playing England again so soon brings up those questions again. And, really, it was a phenomenal effort in that tournament, you can still be proud of the efforts of all the guys on the field. That's what counts and we'll draw a line and go on.”

The right-arm seamer is also eyeing a New Zealand spot for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2019, where he might have to play a different role as a finisher.

Neesham signed off by saying, “I want to play every game I can for New Zealand. I just ticked over 29 and I'm at the stage of my career where I feel like I've started to get things together.”

(With Stuff.co.nz Inputs)