Neil Wagner will call time on his New Zealand career at the end of their Test series against Australia – although the left-arm seamer is unlikely to feature.

The 37-year-old was not selected in New Zealand’s XI for their first Test against Australia starting on Thursday and is set to be released from the squad ahead of the second and last match in Christchurch.

Wagner has taken 264 wickets in 64 Tests at an average of 27.57 and, 12 months ago, secured a famous one-run victory for the Kiwis over England in Wellington by dismissing last man James Anderson to square the series.

“It’s been an emotional week,” said Wagner, who was part of the Black Caps side that won the inaugural World Test Championship.

“It’s not easy to step away from something you’ve given so much to and got so much out of, but it’s now time for others to step up and take this team forward.

“I’m looking forward to one final week in camp and will be doing everything I can to help prepare and support the boys.”

New Zealand coach Gary Stead said: “Neil’s numbers are phenomenal but I don’t think we can underestimate his contributions to the team when the chips were down and he found a way to create a wicket.

“His accuracy, execution and tenacity has been instrumental in many of our great Test victories and he will always be remembered for his lion-hearted nature. Neil gave absolutely everything and we are certainly going to miss his energy and never give in’ attitude.”

What’s next?

The two-match Test series begins in Wellington on Thursday, before the second Test is held in Christchurch on March 8.

The Men’s T20 World Cup takes place in West Indies and the United States of America this June, with England returning as defending champions for an event expanded to 20 teams. Australia are in the same group as England, Namibia, Scotland and Oman.

New Zealand are in the same group as the West Indies, Afghanistan, Uganda and Papua New Guinea. Watch the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup this June live on Sky Sports. Stream the best sport with NOW.

Get Sky Sports on WhatsApp

You can now start receiving messages and alerts for the latest breaking sports news, analysis, in-depth features and videos from our dedicated WhatsApp channel. Find out more here…