New Zealand fast bowler Trent Boult has announced that the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2024 will be his last representing the Blackcaps in this tournament. Boult confirmed his retirement plans at a press conference, stating, “For me, this will be my last T20 World Cup. That’s all I have to say,” as reported by ESPNcricinfo. Throughout his T20 World Cup career, Boult has been impressive, taking 32 wickets in 17 matches with an excellent economy rate of 6.07.
Trent Boult’s Legacy and Future in New Zealand Cricket
He currently stands second among the tournament’s all-time leading wicket-takers. At 34 years old, Boult has been sporadically included in New Zealand‘s squads since his central contract was terminated almost two years ago. If this tournament does indeed mark his final T20 World Cup, it could also signify the end of his participation in ODI World Cups. Looking ahead, the next T20 World Cup is scheduled for 2026, followed by the next ODI World Cup in the subsequent year.
Since his debut in 2011, Boult has been a key player for New Zealand, playing pivotal roles in several finals across different formats. He has also participated in four previous T20 World Cups starting from 2014. Boult’s future with the New Zealand team remains uncertain after he chose to focus on playing T20 franchise cricket globally, opting out of a central contract in 2022. Despite New Zealand’s team not advancing to the Super 8 stage in the current tournament.
Boult’s Farewell and New Zealand Cricket’s Youthful Transition
Boult is preparing for his final T20 World Cup match against Papua New Guinea on Monday. Boult’s decision not to compete in future T20 World Cups highlights the direction the New Zealand squad will take going forward. Upon their return, only three players in the current squad will be younger than 30 years old: Rachin Ravindra (24), Finn Allen (25), and Glenn Phillips (27). Boult and Tim Southee, the influential pace bowling pair, have played crucial roles in many campaigns for the Blackcaps.
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