England vs New Zealand, World Cup 2019 final: James Neesham's childhood coach died during Super Over

Former coach of Auckland Grammar School and James Neesham's childhood coach David James Gordon passed away during the Super Over in the World Cup 2019 final between New Zealand and England on Sunday. 

At Lord's, England defeated the Kiwis in a cliff-hanger, as both the game and the Super Over were tied. The hosts won on boundary count to clinch their first ever World Cup title. It left the Black Caps distraught and heartbroken. 

Gordon's daughter Leonie quoted that just when her father's protegee Neesham hit a six on the second ball in the Super Over, while chasing England's score of 15, he stopped breathing.

"One of the nurses came in for the final over, the super over, and she said his breathing is changing," Leonie was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz.

"You know, I think Jimmy Neesham had just hit that six and he took his last breath.

"He has a quirky sense of humour and he was a real character and he would have loved the fact that he did that," she added.

"Dave Gordon, my High School teacher, coach and friend. Your love of this game was infectious, especially for those of us lucky enough to play under you. How appropriate you held on until just after such a match. Hope you were proud. Thanks for everything. RIP," Neesham tweeted on Thursday.

Leonie was heartened to see Neesham's tribute. 

"It was lovely, you know, he's kept in touch with Jimmy and he is friends with Jimmy's father. He always had a soft spot for Jimmy Neesham, he was very proud of him.

"He would definitely be following his career."

Along with Neesham, Gordon also coached Lockie Ferguson from the national team.