New Zealand’s left-arm pacer, Neil Wagner, has decided to end his distinguished international career just before the home Test series against Australia, which kicks off on February 29.
The 37-year-old, who played a crucial role in New Zealand’s Test team over a 12-year span, will not feature in the starting XI for the first Test in Wellington. Instead, he will be released from the squad before the second game in Christchurch.
In his reflections on retirement, Wagner shared with reporters (as reported on New Zealand Cricket’s official website):
“It’s been an emotional week. It’s not easy to step away from something you’ve given so much to and got so much out of, but it’s now time for others to step up and take this team forward. I’ve enjoyed every single moment of playing Test cricket for the BLACKCAPS and am proud of everything we’ve been able to achieve as a team.”
He added:
“The friendships and bonds built over my career are what I’ll cherish the most and I want to thank everyone who’s played a part in where I am today. My teammates have always meant the world to me and all I’ve ever wanted to do was what was best for the team – I hope that’s the legacy I will leave.”
“I’d like to thank my wife Lana for her support in helping me be the man I am today and for helping bring our two little girls Olivia and Zahli, and our boy Josh into the world. I’m looking forward to one final week in camp and will be doing everything I can to help prepare and support the boys,” concluded Wagner.
Wagner concludes his Test career as the fifth-highest wicket-taker for New Zealand, securing 260 wickets at an average of 27.57 in 64 matches.
Renowned as one of the most resilient bowlers globally, this champion cricketer played a pivotal role in the Black Caps’ ascent to the top spot in Test cricket and their victory in the 2021 World Test Championship (WTC).
“Neil wholeheartedly contributed to the Black Caps, and his absence will be deeply felt”- Gary Stead
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead praised Neil Wagner for his outstanding Test career and the remarkable resilience, dynamism, and positive mindset he brought to the team. Since his debut in 2012, the left-arm pacer gained recognition for consistently bowling prolonged spells of short deliveries, even on less challenging pitches.
“Neil’s numbers are phenomenal, but I don’t think we can underestimate his contributions to the team when the chips were down and he found a way to create a wicket. His accuracy, execution and tenacity has been instrumental in many of our great Test victories and he will always be remembered for his lion-hearted nature.”
“Neil gave absolutely everything to the BLACKCAPS and we are certainly going to miss his energy and ‘never give in’ attitude,” Stead told Reporters, via the aforementioned source.
Test skipper Tim Southee commended Wagner as the quintessential team player, stating:
“You always knew what you were going to get with Neil and that was 100% commitment to the cause. He would do anything for the team and has earned nothing but respect and admiration within the dressing room. Personally, I’ve enjoyed a great relationship with Neil on and off the field and am sure our friendship will continue for years to come.”
Wagner’s retirement announcement indicates that his last international appearance was in the recent second Test against South Africa. In that match, he secured a wicket in each innings, contributing to New Zealand’s 2-0 series whitewash.
Following this, Australia and New Zealand are scheduled to engage in a two-Test series from February 29 to March 12, following New Zealand’s 0-3 whitewash in the T20Is.
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