New Zealand’s veteran pace bowler, Neil Wagner has announced his retirement from international cricket on Tuesday.
However, despite announcing his retirement, Wagner demonstrated unwavering commitment by bowling in the New Zealand’s nets session ahead of the first Test against Australia, starting on February 29 in Wellington.
Wagner’s decision to retire came after he was informed that he would not be part of the XI in the Test series against Australia. The 37-year-old will be released from the squad before the second Test in Christchurch. His impressive record includes 260 Test wickets, placing him fifth on New Zealand’s all-time charts.
Time for others to step up: Wagner
In an emotional statement, Wagner expressed the difficulty of stepping away from a sport that has been an integral part of his life.
“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’m looking forward to one final week in camp and will be doing everything I can to help prepare and support the boys.”
Wagner played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s number one Test ranking and their historic triumph in the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.
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