Trent Boult released from New Zealand Cricket's central contract

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Wednesday officially announced that star speedster Trent Boult has been released from his central contract. The reason behind the decision was that Boult wanted to spend more time with his family and also wished to be available for the domestic games alongside the international ones. The board took the decision after the pacer had put in a request several times.

The move also implies that Boult, who has participated in 137 games in the limited overs format and 78 Tests for his country, may only appear in significant matches for New Zealand going forward. This choice contrasts with that of many other players, who have chosen to leave one game format in order to advance their careers and spend more time with their families. Boult, on the other hand, will carry on representing the Black Caps in all formats, albeit with a much smaller role.

This has been a really tough decision for me: Boult

“This has been a really tough decision for me, and I’d like to thank NZC for their support in getting to this point. Playing cricket for my country was a childhood dream, and I’m so proud of everything I’ve been able to achieve with the BLACKCAPS over the past 12 years. Ultimately this decision is about my wife Gert, and our three young boys. Family has always been the biggest motivator for me, and I feel comfortable with putting it first and preparing ourselves for life after cricket,” Boult was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

In addition to giving a strong indication that his retirement from international cricket is inevitable at some point, Trent Boult said that he is aware that opting out of the central contract will reduce his chances of representing his nation. Boult will continue to be allowed to be chosen for New Zealand, but it’s highly probable that players under a central contract will be given preference.

“I still have a big desire to represent my country and feel I have the skills to deliver at the international level. However, I respect the fact that not having a national contract will affect my chances of selection. Having said that, as a fast bowler, I know I have a limited career span, and I feel the time is right to move into this next phase,” he added.