Kane Williamson has played down Ross Taylor's belief that Neil Wagner was forced to retire from international cricket, saying "no one is forced" out the door.
Wagner shocked fans and even the opposition by announcing his retirement in an emotional press conference on the eve of the first Test against Australia in Wellington last week, putting an end to a storied 64-Test career.
Speaking on ESPN's Around the Wicket ahead of the second Test, Taylor said he believed Wagner's retirement was "forced".
"There's no sugar coating it, I think it's a forced retirement," Taylor said, adding New Zealand were missing a trick by not keeping him in the side.
"It's not just his experience and the way he goes about it, but the opposition - Cummins talked about the plans they had for him - experience plays a big part."
But speaking to media today, Williamson said that was not the case.
"I don’t think anybody is forced to retire. I think last week he had a fantastic week and was reflecting on what was an incredible career and we had some amazing moments in the dressing room," Williamson said.
"He’s just done such incredible things for this team and we’ve seen the skill that he has, but the heart and soul and effort that he’s brought to this side and largely led that for so long. It was a really special week and I think he had an amazing time sharing that with the side."
Rumours have swirled about the relationship between Wagner and Black Caps captain Tim Southee, after Wagner was seen pulling the finger at him during the recent Test series against South Africa.
However, Williamson said the pair were "great mates" and the gesture was just banter.
"Those guys are great mates and have been and will continue to do so. That was banter within the dressing room with Waggy and his fielding. Out of context it doesn't look great, but everyone in the team knew the context and at the time it was quite humorous."
Asked whether Taylor's comments were necessary, Williamson had no ill will towards his former teammate and said the team was focused on performing well in the second Test in Christchurch starting Friday.
"Lots of people come out and say different things, and we as a team try and focus on what’s important and that’s our team and our environment."
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