Xtra Time Web Desk: BlackCaps pacer Neil Wagner has called time on his illustrious 64-Test career and will bow out following the Test series against Australia, starting in Wellington on Thursday. The 37-year-old pace-bowler will not be in the starting XI for the first Test at the Basin Reserve and will be released from the squad ahead of the second Test in Christchurch.
Wagner will finish his career fifth on the list of New Zealand’s top Test wicket takers with 260 wickets, at an average of 27. His strike rate of 52 is only bettered by the great Sir Richard Hadlee (50) of New Zealanders to have taken more than 100 Test wickets. He won 32 of his 64 Tests, and claimed 143 wickets at an average of 22 in those victories.
Born in South Africa, he moved to Dunedin to play domestic cricket for Otago in 2008, before moving north to his current home in Papamoa in 2018 to play for Northern Districts.
The left-armer debuted for the BLACKCAPS in 2012 and was a key member of the side during their ascent to the number one ICC Test world ranking and victory in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021.
Wagner said the decision to retire was not an easy one, but it was clear the time was right to move on.
“It’s been an emotional week,” Wagner reflected.
“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,” said Wagner.
Alongside lifting the WTC Mace in Southampton in 2021, Wagner cited blocking out for a draw and a Test series win against England in 2018, and last year’s one-run victory over the same opposition, among the top highlights of his sparkling career in the Black Cap.