New Zealand fast bowler Neil Wagner announces his retirement from international cricket, 48 hours before the first test match against Australia

The 37-year-old New Zealand cricketer Neil Wagner has announced his sudden retirement from international cricket. Wagner took this emotional decision after a conversation with coach Gary Stead. He announced his retirement 48 hours before the upcoming two-Test series against Australia. He announced his decision at a press conference held at Wellington’s Basin Reserve on Tuesday.

Announcing his retirement, Wagner also mentioned some of his favourite memories in Test cricket, including the first Test win over India in 2014, New Zealand’s series win over West Indies in 2014, the series win over England in 2018, the World Test Championship win over India the win includes a one-run win against England last year.

Wagner played 64 Tests for New Zealand and took 260 wickets

He had an impressive record of 260 wickets at an average of 27.57 in the 64 matches that he played. His strike rate of 52.7 is the highest after Sir Richard Hadlee among New Zealand bowlers, who have taken more than 100 wickets. Wagner expressed his gratitude to his family, friends, coaches and mentors for supporting him throughout his career. Out of the 64 Test matches in which Wagner has participated for New Zealand, the team has won 32, during which he has taken 143 wickets at an average of 22.

Wagner got emotional during the press conference. He said that the choice of retirement was very difficult for him, but his time had come to move on.
“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. 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 said in his official statement.

Left-arm pacer Neil Wagner was born in South Africa. In 2008, he moved to New Zealand. The 37-year-old left-arm pacer made his debut for New Zealand in 2012 against West Indies. He played his last Test against South Africa on February 13, 2024. The first Test between New Zealand and Australia will be played in Wellington from February 29 and the second Test will be played in Christchurch from March 8.