Neil Wagner Announces Surprise Retirement From International Cricket Ahead Of NZ vs AUS Tests

New Zealand fast bowler Neil Wagner has announced his retirement from Test cricket, concluding a career that spanned 64 matches and making him the fifth-highest wicket-taker for the nation.

Neil Wagner announces his retirement from international cricket prior to a nets session ahead of the First Test in the series between New Zealand and Australia at Basin Reserve on February 27, 2024 in Wellington, New Zealand.

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Neil Wagner, the seasoned New Zealand fast bowler, has officially declared his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect. This decision reportedly comes following communication from the New Zealand selectors, informing him that he would not be part of the squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Australia, commencing on February 29 in Wellington.

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, the 37-year-old Neil Wagner made the surprising decision to retire from international cricket after a discussion with the Back Caps coach Gary Stead last week. During this conversation, it was clarified that Wagner would not be included in New Zealand's best XI for the upcoming New Zealand vs Australia Test series. This marked a significant moment in Wagner's career, prompting his emotional decision to step away from international cricket.

Wagner Finishes His Carrer As One Of New Zealand's Finest

Neil Wagner concludes his international career after featuring in 64 Tests for his adopted country, having initially moved from South Africa. Throughout his Test career, he achieved an impressive record, capturing 260 wickets at an average of 27.57 and an excellent strike rate of 52.7. Among New Zealand bowlers with over 100 Test wickets, only the legendary Sir Richard Hadlee boasts a superior strike rate. Wagner's contributions have left a significant mark on New Zealand cricket, and his statistics reflect his effectiveness as a key bowler for the team.

‘It’s Now Time For Others To Step Up’

Neil Wagner expressed that it has been an emotional week for him. While acknowledging the difficulty of stepping away from a sport to which he has dedicated so much and gained significantly from, he emphasised that it is now the right time for others to step up and lead the team forward.

“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,” said Wagner as per a New Zealand Cricket media release.

“I’ve enjoyed every single moment of playing Test cricket for the Black Caps 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,” he added as per the media release.

The NZ vs AUS Two-match Test series will get underway in Wellington on February 29 with the 2nd NZ vs AUS Test slated to be played in Christchurch from March 8.