(Reuters) – New Zealand cricketer Neil Wagner has announced his retirement from the sport after playing in 64 tests and becoming the nation’s fifth highest wicket-taker with a total of 260 victims. Despite being named in the squad for the upcoming two-test series against Australia, Wagner was informed by selectors that he would not be featuring in either of the matches.
Speaking emotionally about his decision, the 37-year-old, who was born in South Africa, expressed his gratitude for the opportunities cricket had given him, stating, “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.”
Known for his fiery swing bowling and being a popular player among fans, Wagner played a key role in New Zealand’s journey to becoming the world’s number one test side and winning the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021. He retires with an impressive bowling average of 27.57 runs and a strike rate of 52, ranking second only to Richard Hadlee in New Zealand’s history of bowlers with over 100 test wickets.
His retirement was announced during a press conference held with New Zealand head coach and selector Gary Stead at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. Though he will continue playing first-class cricket, Wagner believes it is the appropriate time to step away from test matches, stating, “I thought it was the right time to step down and let the other guys come in and do what we’ve been doing as a group for a number of years and obviously grow that attack.”
Reflecting on the emotional journey of retirement, Wagner acknowledged the importance of passing on the legacy to the younger players and leaving the New Zealand cricket team in a good position for the future. He emphasized the significance of continuing to build on the team’s success and nurturing a strong bowling attack for the upcoming matches.
Wagner’s retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket, with his contributions on the field and his dedication to the sport leaving a lasting impact on fans and teammates alike. His departure creates an opportunity for emerging players to step up and fill the void left by his absence, as the team looks towards continuing their success in the future.
Reported by Ian Ransom in Melbourne and edited by Shri Navaratnam, Neil Wagner’s retirement signifies the closing of a chapter in New Zealand cricket history, while also paving the way for new talent to shine on the international stage.
