After a heated discussion with coach Gary Stead, during which it became apparent that he would not be starting in the upcoming series against Australia, Wagner made his choice public. Neil Wagner was New Zealand‘s fifth-highest wicket-taker at the end of the Test match.
After being left out of the first Test team in Wellington and the second Test squad in Christchurch, Wagner declared his retirement. Wagner was supposed to represent Australia. The 37-year-old acknowledged the emotional difficulty of the decision but felt it was time to hand the baton to the next generation of players.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Wagner remarked, “This week has been pretty emotional. Giving up something you’ve fought so hard for is never easy, but someone else needs to take the initiative at this moment.”
He expressed his joy at joining the Blackcaps and gave thanks to his teammates and family for their unwavering support over the course of his career.
Following the Test match, Trent Boult, Daniel Vettori, Tim Southee, Sir Richard Hadlee, and Wagner—among the most successful bowlers in New Zealand history—were ranked higher in the country’s record book.
Coach Gary Stead highlighted Wagner’s accomplishments and impact while also praising his selfless work ethic and unwavering commitment to the team’s success.
The Blackcaps have significantly improved under Neil Wagner. “Neil has incredible stats. Many of our great Test triumphs have been attributed to his precision, execution, and perseverance,” Stead remarked of Wagner.
As Wagner says goodbye to international cricket, the cricket community honours his incredible career and his enduring impact on New Zealand cricket.
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