‘Everyone wants a piece of the host nation’ - Trent Boult talks about prospect of facing India in potential WC semi-final clash

The ODI World Cup 2023 has started to enter its final stages. With just a handful of group-stage matches left, the four teams at the top will be keen on maintaining their spot and making it to the knockout stages of the competition. Currently, the table sees team India sitting atop the standings, with South Africa following them in second place. Furthermore, Australia and New Zealand occupy third and fourth place in the standings, respectively.

New Zealand were in a spot of trouble after four consecutive defeats in the tournament. However, after a win against Sri Lanka in their recent game, the Black Caps almost solidified their place in the semi-finals. It is also worth noting that if New Zealand finishes in fourth place in the standings, they will be going up against the Indian team in the semi-final.

Talking of the potential clash, star pacer Trent Boult came forward to talk of the prospect of facing off against India. Opining that every team wants a piece of the hosts, Boult stated that India has been playing phenomenal cricket.

“Yeah. Everyone wants a piece of the host nation. They are playing good cricket, and it will be an interesting battle,” Trent Boult said in the post-match presentation after defeating Sri Lanka.

I think it's always a challenging format: Boult

Furthermore, Boult also talked about the challenging conditions for the bowlers while playing in India. Branding the conditions as unforgiving, Boult stated that he tries to give his best in every game, despite the challenging conditions.

"I think it's always a challenging format and challenging to bowl in this part of the world. I tried to use my experience and hit the right areas consistently. You come across different conditions when you come to this part of the world. You can't give any excuse,” Boult said.

New Zealand were quick to dismantle Sri Lanka in their recent clash at the ODI World Cup 2023. Bundling out the side for just 171 runs in the first innings, the Black Caps then chased the target with five wickets in hand.