New Zealand Pace Sensation Neil Wagner Announces Retirement From International Cricket
New Zealand’s formidable left-arm pacer, Neil Wagner, has declared his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect, New Zealand Cricket announced on Tuesday. Wagner, one of just five Kiwi bowlers to amass more than 250 Test wickets, will be absent from the starting lineup for the upcoming Test at the Cello Basin Reserve and will be released from the squad before the subsequent match in Christchurch. This decision marks the end of an illustrious career spanning 64 Tests over a period of 12 years
Neil Wagner, known for his relentless work ethic and dedication, concludes his career as the fifth-highest Test wicket-taker for New Zealand, tallying an impressive 260 wickets at an average of 27. Among Kiwi bowlers with over 100 Test wickets, his strike rate of 52 is surpassed only by the legendary Sir Richard Hadlee (50). Wagner played a pivotal role in 32 of his 64 Test appearances, contributing 143 wickets at an outstanding average of 22 in victorious matches.
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Originally hailing from South Africa, Wagner made his mark in New Zealand cricket after moving to Dunedin in 2008 to represent Otago. He later shifted to Papamoa in 2018, joining Northern Districts, further solidifying his status as a formidable force in the cricketing world.
“It’s been an emotional week,” Wagner said. “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. 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.”
Neil Wagner thanked his wife for the support and focused on the big contribution she has made into his life
“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.”
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