Why the Kiwi Giant Is Trending in the USA
Why Kyle Jamieson Is Trending in the USA
Kyle Jamieson, New Zealand’s towering 6’8” pacer, is stealing the spotlight in the USA with his IPL 2025 performances for Punjab Kings (PBKS). As cricket gains momentum in America, fueled by the T20 World Cup and a growing South Asian diaspora, Jamieson’s return from injury and impactful bowling in high-stakes matches like PBKS vs. Mumbai Indians have ignited social media. Fans on X are buzzing about his pace and bounce, making him a trending topic.
Background: The Rise of a Cricket Titan
Born in Auckland, Jamieson debuted internationally against India in 2020, earning fame with a five-wicket haul in the World Test Championship final. His IPL journey began with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2021 for INR 15 crore, though injuries, including a recurring back stress fracture, sidelined him. After missing IPL 2023 with Chennai Super Kings, he joined PBKS in 2025 as a replacement for Lockie Ferguson at INR 2 crore, marking a dramatic comeback.
Latest Game Highlights
In IPL 2025’s Match 69 against Mumbai Indians on May 26, Jamieson bowled tightly, conceding just 7-8 runs in crucial overs, including the 18th, despite a dropped catch of Suryakumar Yadav. His height and pace troubled MI’s Ryan Rickelton, who lofted a one-bounce boundary but struggled against Jamieson’s bounce. PBKS lost, but Jamieson’s resilience shone, positioning him as a key playoff asset.
- Key Stats:
- IPL 2025: 4 matches, 5 wickets, economy rate 9.18
- Career IPL: 10 matches, 9 wickets, best figures 3/41 (2021 vs. KKR)
- Highest score: 16 runs vs. PBKS (2021)
- Recent: 42/0 vs. MI at Jaipur (May 2025)
Social Media Reactions
X is electric with Jamieson hype. “Jamieson’s back and bowling 🔥! That height is a nightmare for batsmen! #IPL2025 #PBKS” posted @CricketLadUSA. Clips of his fiery overs and a viral 2021 bat-breaking yorker to Krunal Pandya are circulating. American fans, new to cricket, are captivated by his stature and skill, with memes amplifying his “Killa” nickname.
Why It’s Trending Now
Cricket’s rising USA fanbase, driven by JioHotstar’s 4K IPL streams and stars like Virat Kohli, has spotlighted Jamieson. His comeback story, replacing Ferguson, and clutch performances resonate with Americans loving underdog narratives. The South Asian community and T20’s fast-paced appeal boost his visibility.
Future Implications
Jamieson’s form strengthens PBKS’s playoff hopes, their first since 2014. His success could cement his IPL legacy and inspire more American interest in cricket. With potential national duties looming, Jamieson’s fitness and impact may shape New Zealand’s 2025 campaigns, making him a global name to watch.