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'Bhai nhi 2019 recreate na krde yeh' - Indian fans fear Trent Boult's return to international cricket ahead of 2023 World Cup

New Zealand Cricket has offered star pacer Trent Boult a casual playing contract ahead of the 50-over World Cup.

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Trent Boult

Trent Boult (Source: Twitter)

Trent Boult Trent Boult (Source: Twitter)

New Zealand's preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup have received a major boost as their star pacer Trent Boult is set to return to international cricket. Boult opted out of his central contract last year and was not included in New Zealand's updated contract list of players released on Thursday (June 8). However, the left-arm pacer is committed to playing for the national team in a World Cup year for a casual agreement.

In a mutual agreement, Boult and New Zealand Cricket agreed to terminate the central contract in August last year to participate in T20 leagues around the world and spend more time with his family. However, the 33-year-old has committed to the team after declaring his intention to play in the 50-over World Cup in India later this year.

"He has indicated he’s available for the World Cup. He’s one of the best ODI bowlers in the world so barring injury, I think it’s highly likely he would be part of our squad," NZ head coach Gary Stead told reporters.

Meanwhile, there has been no guarantee that Boult will be a member of New Zealand's Test team when they face South Africa in February 2024 and Australia in March 2024. Stead said the seamer's commitments with the Big Bash League (BBL) and International T20 League (ILT20) will determine his availability for both the Test series.

Adam Milne receives his first central contract in five years

Another Kiwi fast bowler Adam Milne got his first full-time contract with his national team following his impressive performances in international cricket. Meanwhile, spinner Ajaz Patel was dropped from the list of 20 central contracted players.

“Adam’s worked exceptionally hard and has shown good resilience over the past few years to be in a position to earn this contract offer. He’s always been a top-class bowler and we were impressed by his consistent contributions in the recent home summer and tour of Pakistan," Stead said.

The combination of Boult, Milne and Tim Southee will be a lethal pace attack for the Black Caps in the World Cup. However, they are likely to miss the services of Kane Williamson who was injured during the 2023 Indian Premier League.

Here's how fans reacted to the news that Trent Boult is set to play for NZ in the 2023 ODI World Cup: 

New Zealand Trent Boult