Josh Clarkson

Josh Clarkson is a powerful right-handed batting all-rounder who has become a vital 'finisher' for the Central Districts (Central Stags) and a rising force in New Zealand’s limited-overs squads. Born on January 21, 1997, in Christchurch, the 6ft 3in powerhouse first gained national attention as a standout in the 2016 Under-19 World Cup before establishing himself as a domestic heavyweight. Known for his ability to clear the ropes with ease and his effective right-arm medium-pace bowling, Clarkson’s years of consistency finally culminated in an international debut against Bangladesh in late 2023. His physical presence and long reach make him a daunting prospect at the death, where he has earned a reputation for turning games with rapid-fire cameos and crucial middle-over breakthroughs.

By early 2026, Clarkson has firmly embedded himself in the Black Caps' T20I and ODI setups, often serving as the robust link between the middle order and the tail. His international journey has been marked by high-pressure moments, including a standout 38 against Pakistan and a match-defining 2/24 on his ODI debut. Domestically, he remains a cornerstone for the Stags, recently helping lead them to a Ford Trophy title in 2026 with his dual-threat capabilities. As New Zealand looks to integrate more explosive all-rounders into their white-ball strategy, Clarkson’s evolution from a raw domestic talent to a reliable international performer makes him a key asset for the upcoming global tournament cycles.