Top 5 Highest Wicket-Takers in Plunket Shield 2024/25: Bowling Brilliance in New Zealand’s Premier First-Class Competition
The Plunket Shield 2024/25 season has been a showcase of exceptional bowling talent, with pacers and spinners alike making their mark in New Zealand’s prestigious first-class tournament. As of March 24, 2025, after Round 7, the race for the leading wicket-taker is heating up, with Wellington and Northern Districts bowlers dominating the charts. With the season nearing its climax—culminating in the final round from April 1-4, 2025—let’s dive into the top five highest wicket-takers who have set the competition alight with their skill, consistency, and match-defining performances.
1. Logan van Beek (Wellington) – 30 Wickets
Logan van Beek has been the standout bowler of the Plunket Shield 2024/25, leading the wicket-takers’ list with an impressive haul of 30 scalps in 7 matches. Representing defending champions Wellington, van Beek has bowled 218.1 overs (1309 balls), maintaining an outstanding average of 22.40 and an economy rate of 3.08. His best bowling figures of 5/53 highlight his ability to dismantle batting lineups, while his two five-wicket hauls and three four-wicket hauls underline his consistency. With 50 maidens to his name, van Beek’s control has been pivotal in Wellington’s campaign, making him the bowler to beat this season.
2. Scott Kuggeleijn (Northern Districts) – 26 Wickets
Hot on van Beek’s heels is Northern Districts’ Scott Kuggeleijn, who has claimed 26 wickets in just 5 matches. Kuggeleijn’s efficiency is evident in his stellar average of 20.61, the best among the top five, and an economy rate of 3.18 across 168.1 overs (1009 balls). His strike rate of 38.80 reflects his ability to strike quickly, backed by two five-wicket hauls and one four-wicket haul, with a best of 5/43. Despite playing fewer games than some competitors, Kuggeleijn’s impact has been immense, positioning him as a key figure in Northern Districts’ bowling attack.
3. Peter Younghusband (Wellington) – 25 Wickets
Wellington’s dominance in the bowling department is further exemplified by spinner Peter Younghusband, who has taken 25 wickets in 7 matches. Bowling the most overs among the top five—246 overs (1476 balls)—Younghusband has an average of 30.44 and an economy rate of 3.09. His career-best figures of 8/127 in an innings stand out as one of the season’s defining performances, complemented by one additional four-wicket haul and a five-wicket haul. Younghusband’s endurance and guile have made him a vital cog in Wellington’s title defense.
4. Jacob McKay (Otago) – 25 Wickets
Tied with Younghusband on 25 wickets, Otago’s Jacob McKay has been a revelation this season across 7 matches and 14 innings. Bowling 208.1 overs (1249 balls), McKay has an average of 32.84 and an economy rate of 3.94, the highest among the top five, indicating he’s faced some tough batting conditions. His best figures of 4/84 and one four-wicket haul showcase his potential, though he’s yet to claim a five-for. McKay’s persistence and ability to bowl long spells have kept Otago competitive, marking him as a rising star in New Zealand cricket.
5. Brett Hampton (Northern Districts) – 23 Wickets
Rounding out the top five is Northern Districts’ Brett Hampton, who has snared 23 wickets in 7 matches. Hampton’s economy rate of 2.96 across 189.5 overs (1139 balls) is the stingiest among the leaders, reflecting his disciplined approach. With an average of 24.47 and a strike rate of 49.52, he’s been a reliable wicket-taker, with his best figures of 4/46 and one four-wicket haul. Hampton’s contribution has bolstered Northern Districts’ bowling alongside Kuggeleijn, making them a formidable unit in the competition.
The Bigger Picture
With Wellington and Northern Districts claiming four of the top five spots, it’s clear these teams have relied heavily on their bowling prowess this season. Logan van Beek’s lead at the top is under threat from Scott Kuggeleijn, who could overtake him with a strong finish in fewer matches. Meanwhile, Peter Younghusband’s spin and Jacob McKay’s pace offer contrasting styles, while Brett Hampton’s economy adds another dimension to the leaderboard.
As the Plunket Shield 2024/25 heads into its final stretch, these bowlers will be crucial in determining their teams’ fates. Will van Beek hold firm, or will Kuggeleijn’s efficiency steal the crown? Keep an eye on these stars as the wickets continue to tumble in New Zealand’s premier first-class arena!
