George Worker Retires from Cricket at 34
George Worker, the former New Zealand batter, has bid farewell to professional cricket at the age of 34. The decision marks the end of a 17-year journey in the sport, during which he represented Central Districts and Auckland.
Worker’s international career spanned from 2015 to 2018, with 10 ODIs and 2 T20Is to his name. He made his T20I debut in Zimbabwe, earning the Player-of-the-Match award for his 38-ball 62. His ODI debut came on the same tour of Africa, and he went on to score three half-centuries in the format.
In domestic cricket, Worker was a prolific run-scorer. He amassed 6721 runs in 169 List A games, averaging 43.64 with 18 centuries and 37 half-centuries. His first-class record included 6400 runs at an average of 29.49, while he scored 3480 runs in T20s at a strike rate of 123.57.
Worker’s leadership and experience were highly valued by Auckland Aces, where he played a pivotal role in their Ford Trophy 2021-22 title win. He topped the overall run-scoring chart with 672 runs in ten innings, averaging 84.00 and hitting four centuries.
As a part-time left-arm spinner, Worker claimed 58 first-class wickets, 60 in List A cricket, and 42 in T20s.
Upon announcing his retirement, Worker expressed gratitude for the memories and friendships he forged during his career. He also revealed that he has accepted a “fantastic opportunity” with Forsyth Barr, an investment services firm.
Auckland Cricket’s head of performance and talent, Evan Jones, acknowledged Worker’s contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors.
