Logan Verjus van Beek, born on 7 September 1990, is a name that has been making waves in the world of cricket, representing both the Netherlands and New Zealand. As an all-rounder known for his right-handed batting and right-arm fast-medium bowling, van Beek’s cricketing journey is a story of talent, versatility, and unforgettable moments.
A Multinational Heritage
Born in Christchurch, New Zealand, Logan van Beek’s heritage is a unique blend of New Zealand and Dutch roots. His paternal grandparents, who immigrated to New Zealand in the 1950s, granted him Dutch citizenship. On his mother’s side, he is the grandson of the legendary cricketer Sammy Guillen, who made his mark as a dual international for both the West Indies and New Zealand, hailing from Trinidad.
Early Sporting Prowess
Logan van Beek’s sporting prowess extended beyond the cricket field. He was part of the New Zealand squad for the Under-19 Cricket World Cup in 2010, showcasing his cricketing potential from a young age. Additionally, he displayed his skills as a high-level youth basketball player, representing New Zealand at the 2009 FIBA Under-19 World Championship, demonstrating his versatility in the world of sports.
Crossing Borders: Representing the Netherlands
Logan van Beek’s cricketing journey took a unique turn when he first played for the Netherlands against the English county Essex in the 2012 Clydesdale Bank 40. This marked the beginning of his international career with the Dutch team. Under ICC regulations, he had to serve a three-year waiting period after representing New Zealand before becoming eligible to play for the Netherlands. His presence in the team added a new dimension to Dutch cricket.
Domestic Success in New Zealand
In New Zealand’s domestic cricket scene, van Beek’s contributions were significant. He represented Wellington and made a name for himself as a talented all-rounder. His maiden first-class century in the Plunket Shield in 2015 was a testament to his batting prowess. Furthermore, he achieved a remarkable milestone in the 2017–18 Plunket Shield season by securing his maiden 10-wicket match haul in first-class cricket.
From Derbyshire to Wellington
Logan van Beek’s talent earned him recognition beyond New Zealand’s shores. In December 2018, he signed with the English side Derbyshire for the 2019 County Championship season, further expanding his cricketing horizons. However, his connection with New Zealand remained strong as he continued to be a part of Wellington’s cricketing setup. He even received a contract offer from Wellington for the 2020–21 domestic cricket season.
The Super Over Sensation
June 2023 witnessed Logan van Beek’s meteoric rise to global fame. His remarkable performance in the super over against the West Indies during the 2023 Cricket World Cup Qualifier left the cricketing world in awe. Van Beek’s explosive batting saw him score 30 runs off just six deliveries, including three fours and three sixes, setting a world record for the most runs in a super over in international cricket.
Not content with just his batting heroics, Logan van Beek then took the ball in the super over and bowled brilliantly, conceding only 8 runs and claiming both wickets of the West Indies. This exceptional all-round display secured a historic victory for the Netherlands, their first-ever win over the West Indies in any format of international cricket. His performance also etched his name in the record books as the batsman with the most runs in a super over at the international level.
A Bright Future
Logan van Beek’s incredible journey in cricket continues to inspire both aspiring cricketers and fans alike. His ability to excel in different facets of the game and his unwavering dedication to Dutch cricket make him a standout player. As he looks ahead to the future, there’s no doubt that Logan van Beek will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of cricket.
