Trent Boult Set to Play Less International Cricket For Family Time and T20 Leagues
New Zealand Cricket agreed to release Trent Boult from his central contract after he asked to spend more time with his family and be available for T20 competitions. Prior to Wednesday’s announcement, Boult, 33, had multiple conversations with NZC. Given the abundance of T20 leagues that are forming over the time period of their summer domestic season, the decision could have significant consequences for New Zealand.
Boult’s participation in one of the new T20 leagues in the UAE or South Africa is expected to be announced soon, but NZC chief executive David White told that Boult was still “highly likely” to be chosen for the T20 World Cup in Australia, with preparations for that competition well underway. Additionally, he will finish his current tour of the West Indies.
In a statement, NZC said that Boult had informed White that his desire to tour had decreased and that he preferred to spend more time with his family.
Boult said, “This has been a really tough decision for me and I’d like to thank NZC for their support in getting to this point. Playing cricket for my country was a childhood dream and I’m so proud of everything I’ve been able to achieve with the Black Caps over the past 12 years.
“Ultimately this decision is about my wife Gert and our three young boys. The family has always been the biggest motivator for me and I feel comfortable with putting it first and preparing ourselves for life after cricket.”
Boult hasn’t given up playing for his country in international matches, but he’ll probably play much less for New Zealand. Boult was aware of the consequences of his choice, White said, and NZC will give committed players priority.
Boult immediately transitioned from the IPL into the Test series against England earlier this year. He participated in 16 games for the Rajasthan Royals, including the May 29 final in Ahmedabad. Five days later, on June 2, he participated in the Test match at Lord’s, where he bowled roughly 38 overs. He was then, however, exhausted after New Zealand’s brief tours of Europe.
After making his debut in the renowned 2011 Test victory in Hobart against Australia, Boult has played 215 times for New Zealand in all three forms. With 317 kills at 27.49, 10 five-wicket hauls, and one ten-for, he is one of just four players to have 300 Test wickets for New Zealand. He has taken 169 wickets in ODIs and 62 in T20Is. He presently holds the №1 spot in the ODI bowler rankings and the №11 spot in the Test rankings.
