Veteran New Zealand Batter George Worker Announces Retirement from Professional Cricket
Former New Zealand batsman George Worker, who played for clubs like Central Districts and Auckland, has announced his retirement from professional cricket at the age of 34. Worker has decided to pursue a “fantastic opportunity” with an investment services firm, bringing an end to his illustrious 17-year cricket career.
Worker, who made his professional debut for Central Districts in the 2007-08 season and went on to represent New Zealand at the Under-19 World Cup, described his decision as the “end of an incredible chapter” and the “beginning of a new adventure.” During his career, the left-handed batter forged “great friendships” and created “memories he will cherish forever.”
“Whilst his immense leadership and experience will be sorely missed in the Aces environment, we’re hugely excited for him as he embarks on this next chapter in his career,” said Evan Jones, Auckland Cricket’s head of performance and talent. “George will, of course, remain an important part of the Auckland Cricket family, and we look forward to seeing what that may look like in the future.”
Worker’s international stint was relatively short-lived, having played 10 ODIs and 2 T20Is for New Zealand between 2015 and 2018. However, he managed to score 272 runs in ODIs and 90 runs in T20Is, with his most notable performance being a 38-ball 62-run knock on T20I debut against Zimbabwe in 2015, which earned him the Player-of-the-Match award.
Domestic Cricket Achievements
At the domestic level, Worker’s performances were more consistent. In 169 List A games, he amassed 6,721 runs at an impressive average of 43.64 and a strike rate of 79.85, including 18 centuries and 37 half-centuries. His first-class and T20 numbers, while not as impressive, still showcase his valuable contributions to his teams over the years.
Most recently, Worker played a pivotal role in Auckland Aces’ Ford Trophy 2021-22 title win, topping the overall run-scoring chart with 672 runs in 10 innings, averaging 84.00 and hitting four centuries.
As Worker transitions from his illustrious cricket career to a new opportunity in the investment services industry, he expressed his excitement to bring the same “passion and dedication” to his new role with Forsyth Barr.
🔗 Source