New Zealand captain Tim Southee has hinted at the possibility of recalling retired player Neil Wagner to the team following an injury to Will ORourke during the first Test. ORourke suffered a hamstring injury and will undergo assessment in the coming days. He was only able to bowl five deliveries in his eighth over and remained off the field for the entirety of Australia's second innings.
With New Zealand trailing in the series and ORourke uncertain for the final match, Southee acknowledged the potential option of bringing back the experienced Wagner, who had retired from international cricket before the Test series commenced against Australia.
Wagner to play 2nd Test vs Australia?
In his post-match comments quoted by Cricinfo, the New Zealand skipper mentioned that Wagner has long been a favourite among fans and might be considered as an option.
"We haven't had a lot of discussions as yet," Southee said.
"We'll see how Will scrubs up. The physio hasn't sort of put a timeframe on it or how bad it is. We'll just wait and see how Will goes over the next couple of days. I'm sure there'll be an update in the next 24 hours.”
"We obviously have to go on and make a decision on who comes in and what role we sort of see that playing out in Christchurch."
"[Wagner's] had a great reception here over the last week where he got a couple of moments on the field and obviously he's been a fan favourite for a long time," said Southee.
ALSO READ: Neil Wagner hits nets with New Zealand squad after surprising retirement ahead of NZ vs AUS series
Wagner announced his retirement from international cricket
Wagner declared his retirement just days before the first Test in Wellington. Although he was included in the squad, the paceman was notified that he would not be chosen for either of the two matches.
This compelled Wagner to end his career, during which he amassed 260 wickets in 64 matches. Wagner stayed with the squad throughout the first Test, providing assistance in the nets and also participating as a substitute fielder during the match. The second Test between New Zealand and Australia is scheduled to commence on March 8.
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