Veteran New Zealand fast bowler Neil Wagner has announced his retirement from international cricket, and will play his last in the Test series against Australia, as per a report in nzc.nz. The two-match Test series will begin on Thursday, and the first match will be played in Wellington, while the second in Christchurch.
Neil Wagner Test Record
The 37-year-old Wagner has been exceptional in the 64 Tests he has played so far, picking up 260 wickets, at an average of 27, and a strike-rate of 52. In fact, in the 32 Tests he has won in his career, he has claimed a massive 143 wickets.
He first played for New Zealand in 2012, and since then became an integral part of the team, playing a pivotal role in taking the Blackcaps to a win in the inaugural World Test Championships in 2021.
Wagner Said..
Upon his decision to retire, 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.”