Trent Boult is arguably the greatest pacer New Zealand has ever produced. He played significant roles during the Black Caps' run to the finals of the ODI World Cups in 2015 and 2019. The 34-year-old is all set to have a third bite at the cherry when he puts on the Kiwi jersey once again to play in the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup in India, beginning next month.
Boult turned down a New Zealand Cricket contract to play in franchise leagues in Australia, India, and the United States. Getting to spend more time with his family was one of the other major reasons behind not committing to a contract with the national team. However, the left-arm seamer showed his class in the franchise leagues and has earned his spot back in the New Zealand team ahead of the impending ODI World Cup.
Boult, who made his New Zealand comeback after a 12-month hiatus during the away tour to England, stated that his selection to the World Cup side wasn't guaranteed and he had to work his way for it.
"Selection for the World Cup was never guaranteed. I had to work for it, so I am very happy to be here. It was a good feeling chucking back on the black ODI kit. I can't wait for more," Boult was quoted as saying by The Daily Star.
The left-arm pacer felt that he had learned a lot from the losses in consecutive World Cup finals and said that he has become a better cricketer after those experiences.
"I've been very fortunate to play in a couple of World Cup finals and been on the wrong side of all of them [wry smile]. It's a cliché, but you learn more when you fail than when you succeed. I feel like I'm a better cricketer for that experience."
Boult has been in excellent form since he made a return to international cricket. The experienced campaigner has picked up eight wickets in three innings with the ball at an impeccable average of 15.62 and a strike rate of 18.10. With his years of experience playing in the Indian Premier League, Boult is set to be a key bowler for the Kiwis as they hope to get third-time lucky in the 50-over World Cup.
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