Neil Wagner in NZ vs AUS 2nd Test: Following New Zealand's humiliating 172-run defeat against Australia in Wellington Test, Kiwi skipper Tim Southee has hinted at the potential return of recently retired Neil Wagner to NZ's playing 11 for New Zealand vs Australia 2nd Test in Christchurch.
William O'Rourke encountered a hamstring injury during the first Test match in Wellington. He left the field after bowling just five balls into the eighth over of Day 3 during Australia’s second innings and did not bowl any further in the match. Wagner did step in as a substitute for the injured player.
New Zealand captain Tim Southee was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo: "We haven't had a lot of discussions as yet. We'll see how Will scrubs up. The physio hasn't sort of put a timeframe on it or how bad it is. We'll just wait and see how Will goes over the next couple of days. I'm sure there'll be an update in the next 24 hours. [Wagner's] had a great reception here over the last week where he got a couple of moments on the field and obviously he's been a fan favorite for a long time."
Last week, Neil Wagner made the decision to retire from all formats of international cricket following his omission from the New Zealand Test squad for NZ vs AUS two-match Test series.
Australia beat New Zealand in Wellington Test to take 1-0 lead in two-match Test series
New Zealand initially held the advantage on day 1 of the Wellington Test, but Australia orchestrated a remarkable comeback, posting 383 runs in their first innings. Subsequently, New Zealand struggled, being bowled out for a mere 179, conceding a significant lead of 204 runs to the visiting side. In their second innings, Australia could only manage 164 runs. However, New Zealand's reply fell short as they were dismissed for 196 while chasing a target of 369 on Day 4, eventually losing NZ vs AUS 1st Test by 172 runs in Wellington.