Neil Wagner Re-signs with Durham for County Cricket Season
Neil Wagner, the veteran New Zealand fast bowler, is set to return to Durham for the latter portion of the 2024 county cricket season. His return was confirmed earlier today, with his first appearance slated for Durham’s County Championship match against Sussex, commencing June 22nd. This move provides a significant boost to Durham’s fast-bowling lineup.
Wagner's Illustrious Career
Wagner, aged 39, boasts an impressive international career, having claimed 260 wickets in 64 Test matches for New Zealand between 2012 and his retirement in February 2024. He was widely recognized for his relentless left-arm pace and accuracy. Following his retirement from New Zealand domestic cricket last week, Wagner expressed his intention to continue playing county cricket, making this Durham return a logical progression.
Previous Durham Stint & Statistics
During the previous season, Wagner made a brief appearance for Durham against Nottinghamshire, delivering a match-defining performance with four first-innings wickets that contributed to an innings victory. However, his time was curtailed due to injury, limiting him to just three List A matches. Across his extensive first-class career, Wagner has accumulated a remarkable 841 wickets in over 200 appearances, highlighting his consistent ability to impact games.
Impact on Durham's Bowling Attack
Wagner's return is particularly timely for Durham, as they anticipate Brydon Carse’s likely inclusion in England's Test squad this summer. His experience and skill will prove invaluable in filling this potential gap.
“I am extremely excited to join Durham again!” Wagner stated. “I loved and enjoyed my short time there last season, which was unfortunately shortened by injury, but I feel like I have some unfinished business in wanting to contribute and play a role for a great club.”
Wider County Cricket News
- Sussex are aiming to cause a stir in Division One as part of a revival plan under new leadership.
- Kemar Roach is returning to Surrey for the start of the Championship.
- Will Smeed is facing challenges for Somerset after a recent reversal in red-ball cricket.
- Ben Stokes is unlikely to play for Durham before the Test summer.
Quotes from Durham Officials
Durham’s Director of Cricket, Marcus North, expressed his delight at Wagner’s return:
“We are delighted that Neil is returning to Durham this season for a large block of the summer. We saw during his short spell with us last season how much of an influential character he was in the changing room, so when the opportunity presented for Neil to return it was an easy decision. His left-arm pace complements our bowling attack immensely and his record speaks for itself with over 800 first-class wickets to his name, we are really pleased to welcome him back in June and see him play a key role in our County Championship success.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- When will Neil Wagner make his first appearance for Durham? His first appearance is scheduled for June 22nd against Sussex.
- Why is Wagner returning to Durham? To contribute to the team and fulfill his desire to play a key role in their County Championship campaign.
- How many wickets has Wagner taken in his first-class career? He has claimed over 800 first-class wickets.
- What position does this leave other Durham players? It may reduce opportunities for some younger bowlers, but also provides valuable experience for them to learn from a seasoned professional.
Wagner's County Career Overview
This marks Wagner’s fifth stint at a county club, following previous appearances for Northampton, Lancashire, Essex, and Somerset.