'Don’t Think Anybody Is Forced' - Williamson Dismisses Taylor's Claim On Wagner's Retirement
Neil Wagner called time on his cricketing career
New Zealand skipper, Kane Williamson firmly dismissed allegations raised by Kiwi legend Ross Taylor regarding Neil Wagner’s exit from international cricket as being forced. These comments emerged amid speculation following Neil Wagner’s retirement just before the commencement of the first test in Wellington, after being informed of his release from the squad.
Williamson, set to mark his 100th test match alongside captain Tim Southee, addressed the media, underlining the voluntary nature of retirements in the sport. He refuted the idea that Wagner, at 37, was pushed into retirement, instead celebrating the bowler's storied career.
Williamson hit back at Taylor's claims on Wagner's retirement
Throughout 64 tests, Wagner notched up 260 wickets, boasting an impressive average of 27.57 and a strike rate of 52.7. Among New Zealanders with over 100 wickets in tests, only Sir Richard Hadlee has achieved a superior strike rate.
Without directly engaging with Taylor’s remarks, Kane Williamson chose to highlight Wagner’s invaluable contributions and the impact he has had on the team. He reminisced about the moments shared in the dressing room, acknowledging Wagner’s commitment and spirit that propelled the team forward.
“I don’t think anybody is forced to retire. I think last week, [Wagner] had a fantastic week reflecting on what was an incredible career, and we had some amazing moments in the dressing room and, you know, it didn’t all go perfectly obviously, an on-field performance would have helped. But it was so much more than that and he’s just done such incredible things for this team and we’ve seen the skill that he has and the numbers that everybody sees,” said Williamson.
Williamson portrayed Wagner's retirement week as a heartfelt tribute to a career that significantly shaped New Zealand cricket, beyond just the figures and on-field performances.
“But, you know, the heart and soul and effort that he’s brought to the side and largely led through that for so long. It’s been incredible and it was quite a special week for that reason. I think he had a really amazing time,” added the 33-year-old.
In response to Taylor's specific comments about Wagner being sidelined for the series against Australia, Williamson maintained his distance from selection discussions but confirmed Wagner’s retirement status.
“I’m not involved in those discussions, but from what I gather, he’s now retired,” added the Kiwi skipper.
Meanwhile, Australia won the first Test in Wellington by 172 runs and took a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The second Test will commence in Christchurch on Friday, March 8.
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