New Zealand’s stalwart pacer, Neil Wagner, bids farewell to Test cricket, culminating a remarkable 64-Test career that etched his name among the greats. With 260 scalps to his name, Wagner departs as New Zealand’s fifth highest Test wicket-taker, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Despite his inclusion in the squad for the Australia series, Wagner found himself sidelined from both matches, hinting at an impending departure. The 37-year-old expressed the poignant nature of his decision, acknowledging the difficulty in stepping away from a game that defined a significant portion of his life.
Wagner’s contribution to New Zealand’s ascent to the zenith of world cricket, including their historic World Test Championship triumph in 2021, remains unparalleled. Boasting a bowling average of 27.57 and a strike rate of 52, surpassed only by Richard Hadlee among Kiwis with over 100 Test wickets, his impact on the team’s success is undeniable.
The emotional announcement came during a press conference alongside New Zealand head coach Gary Stead, marking the end of an era for Wagner. While he intends to continue his journey in first-class cricket, Wagner believes the timing is apt to bid adieu to the Test arena, passing the torch to the next generation.
“It’s been an emotional week,” the South Africa-born 37-year-old said on Tuesday.
“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.”
Reflecting on his decision, Wagner emphasizes his desire to leave the Black Cap legacy in a formidable state, providing a solid foundation for future players to build upon. As he embarks on a new chapter, the cricketing fraternity celebrates Wagner’s illustrious career while eagerly anticipating the promising prospects for New Zealand cricket ahead.
“They sometimes say when you think about retirement, you’re screwed in a way. 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.
“It’s never easy. It’s an emotional road. It’s a big roller coaster, but it’s … the time to pass that baton on and leave that Black Cap in a good place for the rest to take it and hopefully grow their legacy forward.”
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