First Test between New Zealand and Australia: Kiwi pacer Neil Wagner fills in as a substitute fielder after announcing his retirement
On the first day of the first Test match between New Zealand and Australia in Wellington, Neil Wagner entered the field in a new capacity. During the match, the pacer filled in as the replacement outfield and was well-received by the home fans.
The team management had already declared that they would not choose the experienced bowler as a starter, prompting the 37-year-old veteran to declare his retirement from international cricket. The pacemaker is still a professional and has continued to assist his team in getting ready for Australia, the reigning WTC champions, even if he is not in the starting eleven.
Tim Southee, the captain of New Zealand, Matt Henry, Scott Kuggeleijn, and William O’Rourke, a 22-year-old prodigy, made up their four-man speed assault. Australia reached 279 runs at the end of play after losing nine wickets, with Cameron Green scoring his second Test century and staying undefeated at 103.
Neil Wagner will still compete on the home circuit for Northern District even if he will not be competing for the 2021 World Test Championship champions. The South Africa-born bowler, who has played 64 Test matches, claimed 260 wickets at an average of 27.57, including nine 5-wicket hauls.
During his news appearance, Neil Wagner sobbed and said it was very difficult for him to accept that he would no longer be playing international cricket for his country.
“I realized the moment was drawing close. It’s frequently said that you’re kind of screwed when it comes to retirement. I was aware that the moment would arrive, and it would arrive soon. Neil Wagner, appearing tearful, said earlier, “I felt it was the appropriate time to stand aside and allow the other players come in and continue what we’ve been doing as a squad for many years and build that assault. I’ve been thinking about it and looking forward to the Test matches that are coming up over the past week.
It’s never simple. The journey is emotional. It is quite the roller coaster. However, I believe the moment has come to hand over the reins and set that Black Cap in a good position so the others may pick it up and hopefully carry on their heritage,” he said.
