New Zealand Pacer Neil Wagner Retires From International Cricket

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New Zealand pacer Neil Wagner on Tuesday (February 27) announced his decision to retire from international cricket, bringing the curtains down on an illustrious 64-Test career for the Blackcaps.

The left-arm quick Wagner, who made his debut in 2012 and went on to claim 260 wickets in the longest format, finishes his Test career fifth overall on the list of New Zealand Test wicket-takers.

The 37-year-old pacer made the emotional decision after a chat with coach Gary Stead last week when it was clear that he was not in New Zealand's top XI for the forthcoming series against Australia.

The pacer was included in New Zealand's squad to face Australia, but he was not picked for the first Test in Wellington and will be released from the squad for the second Test in Christchurch.

Wagner, who featured in the second Test against South Africa last month, admitted that the choice to retire was difficult, but it was evident that the time had come to move on.

"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" Wagner said in an official statement.

The left-armer, who was a key member of the side during their rise to number one ICC Test world ranking and victory in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021, thanked his teammates and family for being part of his success.

"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 added.

"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 as the team prepares to face Australia.

Wagner finishes behind Sir Richard Hadlee (431), Tim Southee (376), Daniel Vettori (361) and Trent Boult (317) for most Test wickets by a Kiwi. 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.

New Zealand coach Gary Stead said Wagner's impact went beyond statistics and commended the pacer's selfless style 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," Stead said

"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. Neil gave absolutely everything to the BLACKCAPS and we are certainly going to miss his energy and 'never give in' attitude," he added.