In praise of Neil Wagner, the Black Cap who forges beauty out of brutality

James Borrowdale spent the last cricket season examining Neil Wagner and his unique approach to bowling. Today, in the first test of the Black Caps’ summer, Wagner returns. Neil Wagner has a wicket. He freezes mid-pitch, fists clenched at his side, knees slightly bent, a roar on his lips. His brows are knitted into a … Read more

The Bulletin: No deal Brexit looms for Kiwi businesses

Good morning, and welcome to The Bulletin. In today’s edition: Brexit No Deal threat looms for Kiwi exporters, students to go on climate strike today, and families of disabled people fear support cuts by stealth. New Zealand businesses are being told they need to prepare now for the possibility of an imminent no-deal Brexit. The UK is … Read more

Could a NZ South Africans XI beat the rest of the Black Caps?

The number of South African born cricketers contracted in New Zealand has now cracked the required number for a full team. So if they were put up against the Black Caps, who would win?  The number of South African born sportspeople who have left their country to pursue their dreams continues to increase, and cricket … Read more

The Pink Ball Diaries: Are Trent Boult and Tim Southee selfish?

In 2015 Simon Day travelled to Adelaide to observe the inaugural day/night test. Yesterday, he caught the train to Eden Park to see the first pink ball test match played in New Zealand.  I feel sorry for Neil Wagner. This summer the test specialist only gets to play four games for his country. That’s eight innings … Read more