NEW DELHI: Former New Zealand cricketer Ross Taylor has stirred speculation regarding the retirement of pace bowler Neil Wagner, suggesting it was a "forced" decision.
Wagner's retirement announcement came ahead of the first Test against Australia, citing discussions with coach Gary Stead about his omission from the squad for the upcoming series.
Taylor's remarks came in response to Wagner's retirement, suggesting it may not have been entirely voluntary. "I think it all makes sense a little bit now. There is no sugarcoating it: I think it is a forced retirement," Taylor remarked during ESPN's 'Around the Wicket' podcast.
Wagner's absence in the squad for the series against Australia raised eyebrows, particularly given his previous contributions against the Australians. Taylor expressed surprise at Wagner's exclusion, especially in a crucial Test against Trans-Tasman rivals.
"To see that he is not selected... I think you do need to plan for the future, but a Test against Australia in a must-win situation, I would not be looking much further than Neil Wagner," Taylor emphasized.
Former Australian captain Aaron Finch echoed Taylor's sentiments, highlighting Wagner's potential impact on the game. "I could not believe Neil Wagner was not in the XI. I just genuinely thought that he must have been out through a niggle," Finch stated.
In response to the speculations surrounding Wagner's retirement, former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson sought to clarify the situation.
"I do not think anybody is forced to retire," Williamson asserted during a press conference ahead of the second Test against Australia.
Williamson provided context to Wagner's decision, emphasizing the camaraderie within the team. "He had a fantastic week and it was reflecting on what was an incredible career. We had some amazing moments in the dressing room," Williamson remarked.
Regarding Wagner's celebratory gesture during his final Test appearance, Williamson dismissed concerns, attributing it to friendly banter within the team. "That was banter in the dressing room with Waggy and his fielding. So Waggy took his opportunity. I think he thinks that obviously out of context [and] it does not look great," Williamson clarified.
Despite the external scrutiny, Williamson affirmed the team's unity and focus on improving. "You always have different transitions and players come and go, support staff come and go... But I see guys that are giving everything, trying to get better as a team, trying to move the team forward," Williamson concluded.
(With inputs from ANI)
