Gary Stead Contemplates Trent Boult’s Return for T20Is Against Australia

Gary Stead Contemplates Trent Boult's Return for T20Is Against Australia

VoM News Desk | January 23, 2024 | 04:42 PM IST | Cricket, Sports | Follow on Google News

Gary Stead Contemplates Trent Boult’s Return for T20Is Against Australia/X@NZ

Gary Stead Contemplates Trent Boult’s Return for T20Is Against Australia

New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, has hinted at the potential inclusion of left-arm seamer Trent Boult in the squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia. However, Stead expressed skepticism about Boult’s return to Test cricket during the home series against South Africa starting from February 4.

Boult’s T20 Leagues Stint and Possible T20I Return

Currently participating in the International T20 League (ILT20) in the UAE for MI Emirates, Boult has been showcasing his skills in various T20 leagues. Stead mentioned that he will have discussions with Boult regarding his future plans and potential availability for the T20I series against Australia. The T20I series commences on February 21 in Wellington.

“I was texting with him last night actually. Trent and I are going to have a conversation this week just around the future and what that looks like for him and where it fits for us as well. He could be available, but I am not 100 per cent sure,” Stead said.

Test Cricket Return Unlikely in the Near Term

While considering Boult’s potential return for T20Is, Stead expressed reservations about Boult transitioning directly from T20 cricket to Test cricket without any intermediate matches. The head coach sees challenges in making such a shift and believes it’s unlikely for the upcoming Test series against South Africa.

“Again, I will have a conversation with Trent, but at the moment, I think probably not. It is very hard to see how you come from a T20 diet back into Test consideration with no cricket before that,” Stead added.

Boult’s Contract Arrangements with NZC

In August 2022, Trent Boult requested New Zealand Cricket (NZC) to release him from his central contract, seeking more time with his family and making himself available for domestic leagues. NZC agreed to the arrangements, offering Boult a casual playing agreement while allowing him to be part of New Zealand’s playing program for a portion of the schedule.

Boult returned to the national side ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup in India, where he played a crucial role, taking 14 wickets in 10 matches. The discussions between Stead and Boult will shed light on the veteran bowler’s plans and potential contributions in the upcoming T20Is.

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