All Out

by Neil Wagner

Neil Wagner is one of the greatest bowlers ever to play test cricket for New Zealand. His unique style and passion for the game made him a Black Caps’ fan favourite and earned him praise from every corner of the cricket-playing world.
In this revealing memoir, he tells his story for the first time in his own words. From his humble beginnings in working-class Pretoria, to his move to New Zealand to chase his lifelong dream and his emergence as an integral part of the most successful period in Black Caps’ history, Wagner opens up about his triumphs on the field and personal challenges off it.
His story resonates with determination, showcasing the grit and resilience that saw him not only survive but thrive as he navigated the high-pressure world of professional sport. Unexpectedly intimate, and beautifully told, this is more than a chronicle of cricketing prowess from one of the game’s most respected players; it’s an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance and the all-out pursuit of one's dreams.

Genres: Sports

Paperback

Reviews

[Joe Ringrose · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good solid spell from wags here - would’ve liked some more short stuff

[Cameron De Leijer · Rating 5 out of 5]

cements my thoughts that Wags was the toughest NZ cricketer

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5. Love Wags. Loved his fire and passion for the game, which comes through in these pages, along with his love for his family. A good review of some of the best times in NZ test cricket - covering the WTC a highlight - and also of how the end of his career played out (and the way he pushed back at the suggested narrative for it). Reading this in the days following his final Plunket Shield match, where ND won the title, helps round off a little of the grey space left at the end, he does go out a champion in one way at least.

[Jordan Oppert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this read - learning more about Neil’s upbringing in SA and what led him to eventually play cricket for NZ. Also interesting reading how his retirement actually played out.. (especially having covered this at the time for work). His iconic send offs and pure passion for the game will be missed this home summer that’s for sure! 🏏

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

The enjoyable autobiography of battler and New Zealand cricket legend, pace bowler Neil Wagner. Lots of ups and downs forging a path through professional sport, from coming up in South Africa, a couple of tears shed at various moments as this player known for tenacity and emotion talks about the costs, rewards, disappointments and moments of profound and moving gratitude. Plenty of stats and descriptions of specific bowling spells, which somehow, rather than becoming boring, add to the drama (or maybe for this cricket-head, at least).

(I listened to the audiobook.)

[David Hooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had to read this one given Wags is one of my favourite all time test players. Honest and emotional at times, very inspiring. Enjoyed the technical insight as well, so much more to an over in test cricket then I would ever pick up on as a fan. I especially enjoyed reliving the WTC final in 2021 through his eyes. Great New Zealander!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoroughly splendid read about a thoroughly splendid person! I probably read the book faster than I should have, but my eyes were glued to the pages, as James Borrowdale helped Neil tell his story with all the colour and excitement as we have come to expect from Wags!

[Matthew Hayden · Rating 4 out of 5]

An outstanding insight into one of our great sporting warriors and his role in arguably our greatest cricketing era. Wagner manages to speak freely and frankly, but in a measured and genuine way. Highly recommended!

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a journey. What a great New Zealander. A must for any cricket fan.

[Cam Yaxley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really interesting insight into one of NZs best bowlers. Of particular interest to me was the sad way it all ended

[Rodger Hewitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read from one of NZ’s best bowlers. Would recommend!

[Jaimie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really enjoyable read regarding the passionate Wags. Interesting insights into the end of his career with the Black Caps.