New Zealand pacer Trent Boult, one of the best fast bowlers of today, revealed the toughest batsmen he has faced in T20 cricket in an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times.
The left-arm seamer has been instrumental in New Zealand’s recent success, reaching three World Cup finals and winning the World Test Championship final at the Rose Bowl in Southampton in 2021.
However, Trent Boult decided to opt out of his central contract as he wanted to devote more time to playing in the league. The 33-year-old played a key role for MI Emirates in the inaugural UAE International League T20 tournament.
The New Zealand fast bowler told the media that he found it difficult to bowl against Indian opener KL Rahul and West Indies’ destructive opener Chris Gayle.
“That’s a tricky question. There are so many batters. I’ve always found Gayle very hard to bowl to, I’ve found KL Rahul very hard to bowl to. Polly (Pollard) would be up there as well. T20 cricket is one of those games where guys are out there trying to express themselves, take the game on, no fear. Pretty exciting product, really.”
Boult said he was happy to come into the tournament not knowing what his role would be. He said the standard of cricket was exceptional and the talent and quality of all six teams were high.
“That’s the challenge you want. You come to the tournament not knowing what to expect. The standards of cricket is exceptional. There’s been some great performances. The quality is there among all six sides. Teams are stacked with lots of talent.”
Boult will not be included in the New Zealand Test squad against England at home. He was not considered for selection as the team management prefers players who are on contract and playing domestic cricket.