Trent Boult's last appearance in a T20I dates back to November 2022 | © X (@circleofcricket Twitter)
In a significant development ahead of the upcoming T20I series against Australia, New Zealand has announced the return of veteran pacer Trent Boult to the squad. The left-arm fast bowler, who last featured in a T20I in November 2022, is set to play in the second and third matches of the series, both to be held in Auckland.
Boult’s inclusion is a strategic move to fortify the bowling attack, with the seasoned campaigner stepping in for Tim Southee. Southee, a key figure in the New Zealand bowling lineup, is slated to play only the first T20I to manage his workload before the subsequent two-match Test series.
In addition to Boult’s return, the 14-man squad includes uncapped all-rounder Josh Clarkson and Rachin Ravindra. However, New Zealand will be without the services of Daryl Mitchell, nursing a foot injury, and Kane Williamson, who is on paternity leave.
Selector Sam Wells expressed confidence in the replacements, stating, “It’s never ideal missing two of your best players for such a big series, but in saying that, we do have a lot of faith in the guys coming in.” Wells highlighted the exciting prospects of both Clarkson and Ravindra, emphasizing their contributions in the white-ball squads during the summer.
Wells spoke highly of Clarkson’s abilities, saying, “Josh hits the ball as long and as hard as anyone, and we were encouraged by his performances with the ball in his maiden ODI series against Bangladesh before Christmas.” Meanwhile, Rachin Ravindra’s all-round skills were acknowledged, providing the squad versatility.
The absence of Michael Bracewell due to a finger injury and Jimmy Neesham’s participation in the Bangladesh Premier League ruled them out of contention for selection.
The whole squad for the T20I series against Australia:
Mitchell Santner (c)
Finn Allen
Trent Boult (games 2 & 3)
Mark Chapman
Josh Clarkson
Devon Conway (wk)
Lockie Ferguson
Matt Henry
Adam Milne
Glenn Phillips
Rachin Ravindra
Tim Seifert (wk)
Ish Sodhi
Tim Southee (game 1)
The series promises to be an exciting clash between the Trans-Tasman rivals, with New Zealand banking on the experience of Boult and the enthusiasm of the new additions to make a mark against the formidable Australian side.
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