Black Caps Coach Optimistic about Trent Boult’s Return for 2023 ODI World Cup

Wellington: Kiwi Quick Trent Boult, despite not having a national contract, may make a comeback for New Zealand at the upcoming ODI World Cup, according to Black Caps coach Gary Stead.

Boult had chosen not to renew his New Zealand Cricket contract last year, allowing him to participate in the highly lucrative Big Bash League in Australia.

On Thursday, New Zealand Cricket announced that Boult was not among the players offered a central deal, but he signed a “casual playing agreement” instead.

Stead expressed optimism about Boult reestablishing his formidable partnership with New Zealand Test captain Tim Southee at the 50-overs World Cup in India, commencing in October.

“We are engaged in positive discussions with Trent, and he has expressed his availability for the World Cup. From our perspective, he is undeniably one of the premier ODI bowlers globally. Unless hindered by injury, it is highly probable that he will be part of our squad,” Stead said.

With an impressive record of 187 wickets in ODI cricket and an additional 74 in Twenty20 matches for his country, the 33-year-old Boult is considered one of the finest ODI bowlers in the world. However, despite representing the Black Caps in the 2022 Twenty20 World Cup, Boult was not included in the New Zealand squad for this year’s drawn home Test series against England and the victorious 2-0 campaign against Sri Lanka.

Stead stated that Boult, who has amassed 317 Test wickets, could potentially return to the Black Caps’ Test squad for the upcoming home series against South Africa, followed by Australia. “Discussions are ongoing regarding that matter. Trent has prior commitments to other leagues, so we are currently working through the details and the implications it may have,” added Stead.