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.
