For all Wagners heroics with the ball, it is his innings with Ish Sodhi to save the 2nd Test match and win the series in 2018 that I find to be particularly memorable. Mainly, for the foresight to review his caught behind dismissal and start walking off in the fading light and ensure there would be no time left for any sort of miracle.
Wow, great account Dylan. Must say I was surprised by this despite the visible issues in the SA tests. The right call I think, that lost 5kmh had taken the edge off his method. But what a career, I’ve had a few texts from cricket contacts in Oz this morning saying how highly they rated his competitive spirit and what great numbers he put together.
I’d add that while all the Black Caps were good with fans, Wags stood out as truly great with the kids. I remember him sprinting to the boundary at Hagley after yet another intense over of bowling, just to sign autographs. And after a Test in Dunedin, he was late to come out for some reason but stayed till every single kid (and adult) had what they wanted, signing and posing for photos. And he seemed genuinely pleased to be doing it, chatting away and joking with the kids. I’ve never seen anything like it, the two personalities of ultra-aggro bowler vs basically a young Grandad, all on show in the space of a few minutes. An amazing personality.
The kids love him to this day for his time on the sideline as much as his time in the middle.
For all Wagners heroics with the ball, it is his innings with Ish Sodhi to save the 2nd Test match and win the series in 2018 that I find to be particularly memorable. Mainly, for the foresight to review his caught behind dismissal and start walking off in the fading light and ensure there would be no time left for any sort of miracle.
Helluva write up Dylan. Thanks for publishing the exert. I've got the book (thanks to my Bounce subscription!) but hadn't read his section yet.
Dead. Set. Legend.
Wow, great account Dylan. Must say I was surprised by this despite the visible issues in the SA tests. The right call I think, that lost 5kmh had taken the edge off his method. But what a career, I’ve had a few texts from cricket contacts in Oz this morning saying how highly they rated his competitive spirit and what great numbers he put together.
Great story writing Dylan, thanks
I’d add that while all the Black Caps were good with fans, Wags stood out as truly great with the kids. I remember him sprinting to the boundary at Hagley after yet another intense over of bowling, just to sign autographs. And after a Test in Dunedin, he was late to come out for some reason but stayed till every single kid (and adult) had what they wanted, signing and posing for photos. And he seemed genuinely pleased to be doing it, chatting away and joking with the kids. I’ve never seen anything like it, the two personalities of ultra-aggro bowler vs basically a young Grandad, all on show in the space of a few minutes. An amazing personality.
The kids love him to this day for his time on the sideline as much as his time in the middle.
The prospect of a glorious bronze statue of such glorious cricketing specimen is, well, glorious!
If you could have your pick of them, which ground would you go for?
It's always great to find out about the person behind the player so thanks Dylan for an absorbing read. Now, how do I find a copy of your book?
loved reading this. what a great story! Tips glass to Wagner 🥂