Neil Wagner announces retirement from international cricket

New Zealand speedster Neil Wagner has announced his retirement from international cricket, drawing curtains on an illustrious career that nearly lasted 12 years. During this time the fiery pacer made 64 test appearances for the Kiwis and won the inaugural World Test Series. 

The 37 year old made the decision after he was told that he would not be part of the XI in the test series against the Kangaroos commencing in Wellington on Thursday (February 29). He will now be omitted from the squad before the second Test implying he will bid adieu to international cricket with 260 Test wickets to his name- fifth on NZ’s all time leading wicket takers- at a strike rate of 52.7 that is surpassed only by the iconic Sir Richard Hadlee among Kiwis with 100 Test wickets or more

Wagner said that it was not an easy call and he had “an emotional week” but it was clear that it was the right time for him to move on. 

“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," he was quoted as saying in 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. 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.

"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."

Born and brought up in South Africa, the quickie moved to Dunedin in 2008 to pursue his cricket career and started with playing domestic cricket for Otago, later relocating to Papamoa to represent the Northern Districts in 2018. He earned his debut test cap against the West Indies at North Sound in 2012 and five years later it was against the same opponents he registered his career best figures of 7/39 in the Wellington Test. 

Wagner made heads turn with his remarkable work-rate, his ability to bowl lengthy and intense spells on wickets not so conducive for bowlers and his menacing bouncers, which among other, also played a crucial role in ruffling the likes of Steve Smith, widely regarded the best Test batter of this era. 

"You always knew what you were going to get with Neil and that was 100 percent commitment to the cause," New Zealand skipper Tim Southee said. "He would do anything for the team and has earned nothing but respect and admiration within the dressing room."

Wagner will continue playing for the Northern Districts and has confirmed his decision to remain available for domestic cricket next season-whether in home or overseas.