Neil Wagner, a New Zealand fast bowler, announced his retirement from international cricket on Tuesday after an amazing 64-Test career with the Blackcaps. The left-armer finishes his Test career as New Zealand's seventh-highest wicket-taker. The 37-year-old pacer made the emotional decision during a conversation with coach Gary Stead last week when it became evident that he would not be in New Zealand's starting XI for the upcoming series against Australia. The pacer was appointed to New Zealand's team to face Australia, but he was not selected for the first Test in Wellington and will be dropped from the squad for the second Test at Christchurch.
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. Wagner said in an official statement.
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.
~he added
Wagner retires as New Zealand's fifth-highest wicket-taker, trailing only Sir Richard Hadlee (431), Tim Southee (376), Daniel Vettori (361), and Trent Boult (317). The 37-year-old speed bowler will not be in the starting XI for the first Test at the Cello Basin Reserve and will be dropped from the squad before the second Test in Christchurch.
Wagner will conclude his career seventh among New Zealand's leading Test wicket-takers, with 260 wickets at an average of 27. His strike rate of 52 is only surpassed by the legendary Sir Richard Hadlee (50) among New Zealanders who have taken more than 100 Test wickets.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead said Wagner's effect extends beyond numbers and praised the pacer's selfless approach throughout his career.
Neil's numbers are phenomenal, but I don't think we can underestimate his contributions to the team when the chips were down and he found a way to create a wicket. His accuracy, execution and tenacity have been instrumental in many of our great Test victories and he will always be remembered for his lion-hearted nature.
~Stead said
Neil gave absolutely everything to the BLACKCAPS and we are certainly going to miss his energy and 'never give in' attitude.
~he added.
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