‘It was great to be back’ - Trent Boult reflects on his return to international cricket

Star New Zealand pacer Trent Boult is finally back, donning the BlackCap. The 34-year-old sought a release from his central contract in 2022 and focused completely on franchise cricket. However, during his contract negotiation, Boult did let New Zealand Cricket (NZC) know of his strong desire to compete in the ODI World Cup 2023.

During that time, NZC did not guarantee him a spot in the squad for the World Cup, which is scheduled to kick off on October 5. Through recent developments, Boult earned his 100th ODI cap for New Zealand as they took on England in the second ODI of their ongoing series at the Ageas Bowl. Despite losing the game to England, Boult showcased his class, taking three wickets and conceding 37 runs in seven overs. 

Making his first international appearance since the 2022 T20 World Cup, Boult was named in New Zealand’s 15-man provisional squad for the ODI World Cup 2023. With his return, the veteran pacer took centre stage and talked about how good it feels to be back and playing for New Zealand.

"It was great to be back in familiar surroundings, It was a very good feeling, chucking back on the black ODI kit - and on the side, the individual milestone of 100 games added to that feeling as well," Trent Boult was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. 

It just became too hard: Boult

Boult also talked about what made him give up his central contract and focus more on franchise cricket. He opined that the decision was made by focusing on his time away and spending much more time with his family. He also stated that a spot in the World Cup squad was never guaranteed, but he was happy to be a part of it.

"The decision was solely made around time away… with a young family, I couldn't travel as much. It just became too hard. I prioritised my time with them and gave myself a chance to play some cricket around to world, to see what I could learn," Boult said.

"Selection for the World Cup was never guaranteed and I was never expecting it to be. I had to work for it and I'm very happy to be here," he added.