Wellington: Steve Smith won’t have a rematch with Neil Wagner in New Zealand after the fiery left-armer announced his retirement ahead of the first Test at the Basin Reserve.
Wagner made the decision after it became clear he would not be considered for the first Test. He will stay with the squad this week and be released ahead of the second match in Christchurch.
Neil Wagner dismissed Steve Smith four times in the first two Tests the last time the sides met.Credit: Getty Images
He bowled his last ball in a New Zealand shirt on Monday night, albeit in a lighthearted game at the Kiwi Prime Minister Chris Luxon’s reception for both teams.
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Daniel Brettig is The Age’s chief cricket writer and the author of several books on cricket.Connect via Twitter.
