Neil Wagner, New Zealand’s fiery fast bowler, has announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect, bringing an end to a 12-year cricketing career that featured 64 Tests for the Kiwis and a World Test Championship.
Wagner, 37, will not be included in the New Zealand squad for the Australian Tests, which begin on Thursday, February 29, in Wellington, and will be released before the action moves to Christchurch. Wagner, who was born in South Africa, will end seventh on New Zealand’s all-time Test wicket-taking record with 260 at an average of 37.
Wagner made his Test debut in 2012 and played a pivotal role in one of New Zealand’s greatest successful periods. He relocated from South Africa to New Zealand in 2008 and soon established himself as a first-class cricketer with Otago province. His strike rate of 52 is only surpassed by Richard Hadlee among New Zealand bowlers who have taken more than 100 wickets.
“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.”
He thanked his wife, Lana and children for their constant support.
“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.”
