New Zealand batter George Worker has announced his retirement from professional cricket at the age of 34 for a role in an investment services firm.
Worker was a prolific run-scorer in New Zealand domestic cricket over a career spanning 17 years. While his first-class and T20 numbers were less remarkable, it is in List A cricket where Worker left a mark. In 169 games, he amassed 6,721 runs at an average of 43.64 and a strike rate of 79.85, including 18 centuries and 37 half-centuries.
Worker's contributions extended beyond batting. As a part-time left-arm spinner, he claimed 58 first-class wickets, 60 List A wickets, and 42 T20 wickets.
Worker's international career spanned from 2015 to 2018, where he played ten ODIs and two T20Is. He made a memorable T20I debut in 2015 in Harare, winning the Player-of-the-Match award for his impressive 38-ball 62. His ODI debut was against South Africa two years later in Potchefstroom. He made three fifties in his first six ODIs but only played four more games.
In March 2022, Worker received a call-up to the New Zealand ODI squad for their home series against the Netherlands after Mark Chapman tested positive for Covid-19 but he did not get a chance.
Tests: 8743 runs @ 54.98
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) August 8, 2024
ODIs: 6810 runs @ 48.64, SR - 81.38
T20Is: 2575 runs @ 33.44, SR - 123.08
Happy birthday, Kane Williamson! 🎂
Read how Kane has shaped New Zealand's team while proving himself as one of the best Test batters➡️ https://t.co/OwB7afgqBI pic.twitter.com/44RAtsKqoq
Next chapter: A ‘fantastic opportunity’ with Forsyth Barr
In a statement, Worker announced his plans for life away from cricket. “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.
“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," Worker said. "I look forward to bringing the same passion and dedication to my new role with them."
Forsyth Barr is an investment firm that provides various financial services and wealth management services including portfolio management, research and sharebroking.
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