Former New Zealand Cricketer Ross Taylor Says Neil Wagner’s Retirement Was “Forced”
Former New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor has ignited a firestorm by claiming that fast bowler Neil Wagner’s recent retirement from international cricket was not a voluntary decision.
Wagner, 37, announced his retirement on the eve of the first Test against Australia, citing personal reasons. However, Taylor, speaking on the “Around the Wicket” podcast, suggested that Wagner was pushed out of the team by head coach Gary Stead.
“There’s no sugarcoating it: I think it’s a forced retirement,” Taylor said. “If you listen to Wagner’s press conference, he was retiring, but it was after this last Test match [against Australia]. So he did make himself available.”
Wagner, a left-arm pace bowler, finished his Test career with 260 wickets in 64 matches, placing him fifth on the all-time list for New Zealand. He was known for his relentless aggression and work ethic, earning him the nickname “The Terminator.”
Ross Taylor Questions Selection Decisions and Exclusion of Neil Wagner
Taylor specifically questioned the decision to overlook Wagner for the second Test against Australia, a must-win match for the Black Caps. He suggested that Wagner’s experience and tenacity would have been invaluable in such a crucial encounter.
“And to see that he is not selected… I think you do need to plan for the future, but a one-off Test against Australia in a must-win situation, I would not be looking much further than Neil Wagner. And I am sure the Australian batters are sleeping easy that he is not in the side,” Taylor said.
Williamson Offers Different Perspective
However, current New Zealand captain Kane Williamson dismissed Taylor’s claims, stating that Wagner’s retirement was a personal choice.
“I do not think anybody is forced to retire,” Williamson said. “Last week, he had a fantastic week and it was reflecting on what was an incredible career.”
Williamson also provided an explanation for Wagner’s controversial finger gesture during the second Test against South Africa, which was perceived by some as a sign of dissent.
“Those guys are great mates and have been and will continue to be,” Williamson said, referring to Wagner and captain Tim Southee. “That was banter in the dressing room… So to get a catch was quite amusing. So Waggy took his opportunity.”
Williamson emphasized that the team environment remains positive despite the external noise surrounding Wagner’s retirement.
“Something that we are always trying to improve and evolve as a team,” Williamson said. “Taylor might know more than me, I am not sure. But I see guys that are giving everything.”
The differing perspectives from Taylor and Williamson have sparked debate within the New Zealand cricket community, raising questions about Wagner’s departure and the team’s selection process.
