Boult to follow a path similar to that of Stokes and de Kock

(Cricket news) New Zealand cricket yesterday announced that they have agreed to terminate Trent Boult's central contract. The reason behind the decision is that Trent Boult wanted to spend more time with his family and also play other domestic leagues like the t20 leagues in UAE and South Africa which are going to start soon. This effectively means that Boult has not retired from any form of international cricket but his appearances for the Black Caps will reduce significantly. He will be considered for selection if and when available but the priority will always be given to players who are contracted centrally and domestically.

This is a growing trend in World Cricket which started when Quinton de Kock retired from Test cricket. Ben Stokes was the latest one to give up a format as he retired from ODI cricket. Boult has chosen not to prioritise between formats but prioritise between series and opponents. The cricket calendar is jam packed for all the major countries. Money has definitely played a part in Boult's decision. If there is an opportunity for the player to earn more money by playing franchise cricket which he can't do if he is contracted then it makes perfect sense. Boult is likely to play one of the two new domestic leagues if not both.

It is going to be very difficult for the New Zealand captain and coach when it comes to team selection because Boult will constantly be in and out of the team. The seamer is one of the best bowlers in the World across all formats and his absence will definitely be felt. He is already 33 years of age and doesn't have much cricket left in him, especially as an all format fast bowler. It will be interesting to see what tours he does make himself available for and if he is selected for all the tours he is available for.

Also read: Should BCCI have considered Mohammed Shami for the Asia Cup squad?

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