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'It's A Forced Retirement' - Ross Taylor's Shocking Remark On Neil Wagner's Retirement

Neil Wagner was emotional and tearful as he announced his retirement from international cricket [x.com]Neil Wagner was emotional and tearful as he announced his retirement from international cricket [x.com]

Former New Zealand cricket team captain, Ross Taylor, has stirred controversy with his recent comments regarding Neil Wagner's retirement from Test cricket. Wagner, a renowned left-arm fast bowler, announced his retirement just before the commencement of the ongoing Test series against Australia, leaving many cricket fans surprised and puzzled.

In response to a question regarding Wagner's retirement on the ESPN podcast Around The Wicket, Taylor stated

"It all seems to make somewhat sense now, in my opinion. There's no sugarcoating it: I think it's a forced retirement." 

Taylor remarked during the podcast. He highlighted Wagner's availability for selection before the last Test match against Australia and his subsequent omission from the playing XI.

"And to see that he isn't selected... a one-off Test against Australia in a must-win situation, I wouldn't be looking much further than Neil Wagner," Taylor added, emphasizing the significance of Wagner's absence, especially against a formidable opponent like Australia.


Wagner's retirement decision came after he learned that he would not be part of the playing squad for the ongoing Test series against Australia. Despite speculations about a potential recall due to an injury to another player, the New Zealand team management opted to include an uncapped seamer, Ben Sears, instead.

Former Australian batter Aaron Finch also expressed his surprise at Wagner's absence from the playing XI for the first Test against Australia. He highlighted Wagner's past performances and the impact he could have had on the game, particularly against key Australian batters like Steven Smith.

The absence of Wagner was particularly felt during Australia's first innings, as the 10th-wicket partnership between Cameron Green and Josh Hazlewood added crucial runs, contributing significantly to Australia's victory in the match.

Wagner's retirement announcement, coupled with Taylor's remarks and Finch's surprise, has sparked discussions among cricket fans, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the veteran bowler's exit from the international cricket scene and whether there might be issues within the New Zealand cricket board.

It was worth noticing that Wagner fought back tears when he confirmed his retirement from international cricket. Wagner moved to New Zealand in 2008 after being born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa. He was instrumental in helping his new country become the world's top-ranked team and win the World Test Championship for the first time in 2021.