A big Twist in the Australia vs. New Zealand Test series. Neil Wagner could reverse his decision to retire, offering assistance to the New Zealand team. With fast bowler Will O’Rourke injured in the first Test against Australia, the hosts are awaiting an update. If O’Rourke’s situation doesn’t improve, New Zealand might consider bringing Wagner back for the second and final Test. After that, Australian skipper Pat Cummins reacted to this.
Wagner’s Retirement:
Neil Wagner had announced his retirement before the Test series, learning that he wouldn’t feature in the playing XI for the opening Test. However, after a crushing 172-run defeat by Australia, New Zealand skipper Tim Southee mentioned that the door wasn’t closed for Wagner. Wagner bid an emotional farewell to international cricket, ending a career that saw him claim 260 wickets in 64 Test matches.
The South Africa-born left-arm paceman played 64 tests for New Zealand, securing the fifth spot on their all-time test wicket-takers list. His 260 Test wickets place him just behind Richard Hadlee, Tim Southee, Daniel Vettori, and Trent Boult. Importantly, his strike rate is second only to Hadlee, marking Wagner’s significant contribution to New Zealand’s bowling legacy.
Aiming Come Back:
Southee discussed O’Rourke’s injury, emphasizing that the team management will patiently await updates for a couple of days before deciding on his replacement. They aim to gather all necessary information before making a decision regarding the injured player’s role in the team.
Southee said, “We haven’t had a lot of discussions as yet. We’ll see how Will scrubs up. The physio hasn’t sort of put a time frame on it or how bad it is. We’ll just wait and see how Will goes over the next couple of days. I’m sure there’ll be an update in the next 24 hours.”
Pat Cummins’s View:
Meanwhile, Australian captain Pat Cummins responded to New Zealand’s contemplation of bringing back Wagner, expressing support for the decision. Cummins said, “World’s shortest retirement. I mean, why not? If he’s your next best bowler that you think is going to perform, then go for it. I’ve faced him before. It’d be good to see. He’s high energy. It’s been good fun chatting to him each morning out here, so see how he goes.”
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