(AFP Photo)
On Tuesday, August 13, former New Zealand cricketer George Worker revealed his retirement from professional cricket at the age of 34. This announcement brings to a close a distinguished 17-year career, during which Worker established himself as one of the most esteemed domestic batsmen in New Zealand.
Known for his standout performances in one-day cricket, Worker captivated fans and experts alike with his impressive consistency and flair. His early departure from the game leaves a notable gap in New Zealand’s domestic cricket scene, where his contributions have been truly exceptional.
New Zealand’s George Worker, 34, announces his retirement from cricket.
George Worker’s decision to retire has taken many by surprise, particularly given his continued impact on the field. Worker is choosing to leave cricket to pursue an exciting new opportunity with the investment services firm Forsyth Barr, marking the end of a notable chapter for Auckland ACES.
Worker is poised to embrace this “fantastic opportunity” at Forsyth Barr, prompting his decision to conclude his distinguished cricketing career. Auckland Cricket has announced that they are collaborating with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and the New Zealand Cricket Players Association (NZCPA) to find a suitable replacement for Worker.
This decision marks the beginning of a new adventure: Worker
George Worker said in an official statement: “After a fulfilling 17-year journey in professional cricket, I am announcing my retirement from the sport. This decision marks the end of an incredible chapter of my life and the beginning of a new adventure. I would like to extend my gratitude to all the people who have supported me throughout my career, including my coaches, friends, family, and my fiancée, Laura.”
George Worker continued, “I also want to extend a special thanks to Auckland Cricket for the last three seasons and, of course, CD Cricket, where I started out as an 18-year-old and spent most of my playing career. Throughout the course of my career, I’ve forged some great friendships that will last a lifetime and memories I will cherish forever.
As I close this chapter, I am excited to embark on the next phase of my life with Forsyth Barr, who have offered me a fantastic opportunity. I look forward to bringing the same passion and dedication to my new role with them.”
Brief highlights of George Worker’s career
George Worker’s professional cricket journey began with Central Districts in the 2007/08 season, followed by his participation in the Under-19 World Cup for New Zealand. He made his debut for the Black Caps in August 2015 against Zimbabwe, scoring a notable 62 off just 38 balls.
Throughout his international career, Worker played 10 ODIs and two T20Is between 2015 and 2018, accumulating 272 runs in ODIs and 90 in T20Is. In domestic cricket, Worker has achieved impressive milestones, amassing 14,976 runs and 28 centuries, solidifying his place among New Zealand’s top run-scorers.
In List A cricket, Worker scored 6,721 runs in 169 matches at an average of 43.64 and a strike rate of 79.85, including 18 centuries and 37 half-centuries. While his first-class career saw him accumulate 6,400 runs at an average of 29.49, his T20 career yielded 3,480 runs.
One of Worker’s notable accomplishments came in the 2021/22 season when he captained Auckland ACES to victory in the Ford Trophy. During that season, he scored 672 runs at an average of 84, including four centuries, marking a high point in his domestic career.
