ICC T20 World Cup 2024: Trent Boult confirms retirement! Black Caps speedster says ongoing tournament will be his last for New Zealand
Despite New Zealand not progressing to the tournament's Super 8 stage, Boult is set to play his final T20 World Cup match against Papua New Guinea on Monday. (Reuters)
Trent Boult, the renowned fast bowler of New Zealand, has officially declared that the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2024 will mark his last participation representing the Blackcaps in this prestigious tournament.
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“Speaking on behalf of myself, this will be my last T20 World Cup. That’s all I have to say,” Boult said at the press conference as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
In total, his performances in the T20 World Cup have been outstanding, securing 32 wickets in 17 matches with an impressive economy rate of 6.07. He currently ranks second among the tournament’s top ten all-time wicket-takers.
At 34 years old, Boult has made infrequent appearances in New Zealand’s international squads since his central contract was terminated nearly two years ago. If this does turn out to be his final T20 World Cup, it could also mark the conclusion of his participation in ODI World Cups. Looking ahead, the next T20 World Cup is slated for 2026, whereas the next ODI World Cup is scheduled for the following year.
Boult’s successful era
Since making his debut in 2011, Boult has been a cornerstone of New Zealand’s successful era, featuring prominently in multiple finals across all three formats. Additionally, the left-arm pacer has participated in four T20 World Cups starting from 2014.
Boult’s future with New Zealand remains uncertain following his decision to opt out of a central contract in 2022, focusing instead on playing T20 franchise cricket globally.
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Despite New Zealand not progressing to the tournament’s Super 8 stage, Boult is set to play his final T20 World Cup match against Papua New Guinea on Monday.
The confirmation that Boult will not feature in another T20 World Cup emphasizes the future direction of New Zealand’s squad. When they return home, only three players in the current squad will be under the age of 30. Among them are star batters Rachin Ravindra (24), Finn Allen (25), and all-rounder Glenn Phillips (27). Boult and Tim Southee, the influential pace bowling duo, have been instrumental in many campaigns for the Blackcaps.