After a fantastic victory over Warwickshire by an innings and 164 runs on Thursday, it was also a farewell to overseas bowler, Neil Wagner. Joining at the beginning of April, he made his Essex debut against his former Club, Lancashire taking 3 wickets.
Neil played 7 Specsavers County Championship and 7 Royal London One-Day Cup matches, missing two games due to joining up with the New Zealand tour of Ireland in mid-May. He played a starring role in the Championship win at Taunton with figures of 12.2-0-6-48 against Somerset.
In white-ball cricket, Wagner again showed his international class and passionate style of play from the start with 4-41 against Hampshire in front of the Chelmsford crowd.
Captain, Ryan ten Doeschate and Chairman, John Faragher presented Neil with a Club tie and bottle of champagne signed by the squad.
Head Coach, Chris Silverwood had nothing but praise for the New Zealander, “You have seen the repsonse from Members and supporters alike at how much Neil was valued both for his on and off pitch efforts.
“Neil has been a true professional ever since he joined the Club in April. Not only has he made an impact on the pitch but has also passed on years of international experience to our crop of young fast bowlers.
“I wish to thank Neil for his efforts and wish him well for his future endeavours.”
The Club would like to thank Neil for his time at Essex County Cricket Club and wish him well for the future.
Neil Wagner’s departure sees the introduction of Pakistan international and fellow pace bowler, Mohammad Amir who arrived at the Club this week and set to make his debut against Middlesex on Monday – Full Story.
