Neil Wagner’s Successors: 3 Potential Fast Bowlers for New Zealand’s Test Future

New Zealand cricket is bidding farewell to one of its most revered left-arm pacers, Neil Wagner, who announced his retirement from international cricket just days ahead of the crucial two-match Test series against Australia. Wagner’s departure leaves a void in the Blackcaps’ pace attack, but the Kiwis have a pool of talented fast bowlers from the domestic circuit eager to step up and fill the shoes of the seasoned campaigner.

Jacob Duffy

Jacob Duffy (Photo Source: Twitter)

The first name that comes to mind when discussing potential successors for Neil Wagner is Otago’s right-arm pacer, Jacob Duffy. At 29, Duffy has been a consistent workhorse in domestic cricket, amassing 283 first-class wickets in 96 outings. What works in his favor is not only his impressive red-ball record but also his commendable performances in ODIs and T20Is for the national side.

Duffy’s ODI record of 11 wickets in six matches at an average of under 30 showcases his ability to adapt to different formats. His exceptional form in the Plunket Shield, where he was the leading wicket-taker in the 2022-23 season and continues to shine in the ongoing season, makes his selection to the Test side long overdue. At 29, Duffy is in the prime of his career, and his experience and consistency could make him a suitable successor to Neil Wagner.

Raymond Toole

Raymond Toole (Photo Source: Twitter)

If New Zealand opts for another left-arm pacer to replace Wagner, Raymond Toole from Central Districts emerges as a compelling option. The 26-year-old South African-born fast bowler has made a mark on the domestic circuit with impressive first-class numbers – 101 wickets in 30 games at an average of 26.26, including three five-wicket hauls.

Toole’s standout performance in the 2022-23 Plunket Shield season, finishing second in wickets with 31 scalps, solidifies his credentials. His career-best figures of 7/57 in a crucial game that helped Central Districts clinch the Plunket Shield title highlight his ability to perform under pressure. With Toole continuing his stellar form in the ongoing season, New Zealand could bank on this emerging left-arm talent to maintain their position at the top of the World Test Championship table.

William O’Rourke

William O’Rourke (Photo Source: Twitter)

Among those who have already tasted international Test cricket, William O’Rourke emerges as a frontrunner for a regular spot in the playing XI. The 22-year-old right-arm pacer made a memorable debut against South Africa, delivering a standout performance that showcased his potential to be a key figure in the post-Wagner era.

O’Rourke’s impressive figures of 9/93 in his maiden Test outing broke the all-time New Zealand record for the best match figures in a debut Test. His crucial contributions, including dismissing Proteas skipper Neil Brand and removing centurion David Bedingham, played a decisive role in New Zealand’s victory. With a Player of the Match performance in his debut, O’Rourke has undoubtedly earned his place in the playing XI, especially in the absence of the seasoned Wagner.

While Neil Wagner’s retirement leaves big shoes to fill, New Zealand’s fast-bowling future seems promising with the likes of Jacob Duffy, Raymond Toole, and William O’Rourke waiting in the wings. 

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