Neil Wagner's Farewell: A Chapter Closes in New Zealand Cricket
Neil Wagner, the renowned 39-year-old fast bowler, has announced his retirement from domestic cricket in New Zealand. The announcement comes after playing for Northern Districts (ND) in the final round of the four-day Pluncket Shield, commencing on March 29th. A fairytale ending awaits if ND can secure the Pluncket Shield title in Wagner's final appearance.
A Career of Remarkable Feats
- Current Standing: ND currently leads the table with 89 points from seven games, followed by Wellington (82) and Canterbury (80) in the title race.
- Continued International Involvement: Despite retiring from domestic New Zealand cricket, Wagner will continue his career playing county cricket in England.
- Emotional Farewell: Wagner's near-tearful reaction following ND’s recent Super Smash Eliminator loss hinted at a nearing end to his career.
Key Moments and Statistics
- A Full-Circle Moment: Wagner's final game in New Zealand will be against his former team, Otago, at Dunedin - the same venue where he played his maiden first-class match in 2008.
- Domestic Dominance: Since 2005-06, Wagner has claimed 560 first-class wickets in 133 games in New Zealand, averaging 27.03. He stands as the leading wicket-taker in this period.
- Pluncket Shield Legacy: In the Pluncket Shield, Wagner’s 365 wickets place him among the top wicket-takers, trailing only Stephen Book (492), Ewen Chatfield (370), and David O'Sullivan (368).
From South Africa to New Zealand Legend
Born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa, Wagner pursued his cricket dreams abroad after missing out on opportunities at various levels within his home country. Initially considering England, he ultimately moved to New Zealand in 2008. Four years later, he became eligible for international selection, evolving into a crucial member of the New Zealand national team, alongside Trent Boult and Tim Southee.
Wagner was instrumental in New Zealand's triumph in the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC) in 2021. His 17 years representing ND and Otago at the domestic level have cemented his place as a New Zealand cricket icon.
Concurrent Retirement: Ian McPeake
Ian McPeake, Wellington seamer, will also retire from all professional cricket after their final Pluncket Shield match against Canterbury at the Basin Reserve. Like Wagner, McPeake has a chance to retire as a champion. He has accumulated 152 wickets in 55 first-class games and 50 in white-ball formats. McPeake expressed immense gratitude for his career with Wellington, cherishing the camaraderie and unforgettable moments.
FAQs
- Will Neil Wagner continue to play cricket? Yes, Wagner will continue his career playing county cricket in England.
- When is Wagner’s final match in New Zealand? His final match is against Otago in Dunedin on March 29th.
- What is Wagner’s overall record in New Zealand domestic cricket? He has 560 first-class wickets in 133 games, averaging 27.03.
- Who else is retiring from Wellington cricket? Ian McPeake will also retire after their final match against Canterbury.