Boult Returns for New Zealand T20 Squad, Eyes World Cup Spot; Clarkson, Ravindra Earn Call-Ups

Veteran fast bowler Trent Boult earned a partial recall to the New Zealand T20 squad for the upcoming series against Australia, sparking speculation about his potential inclusion in the World Cup squad later this year.

Boult, who has played limited white-ball cricket for New Zealand since stepping off a central contract in 2022, will be available for the second and final matches of the three-game series.

This decision allows his long-time teammate Tim Southee a well-deserved rest after the series opener in Wellington on February 21st, before leading the Black Caps in two home Tests against Australia.

“Trent’s got goals and ambitions to still be part of the T20 World Cup squad,” coach Gary Stead stated. “We thought this fitted really nicely with Timmy playing the first one then having a little bit of a break before the test series and Trent coming in.”

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The T20 series will see New Zealand field a weakened batting line-up due to the absence of key players Kane Williamson (paternity leave) and Daryl Mitchell (foot injury), both expected to return for the Test matches.

This opens doors for uncapped all-rounders Josh Clarkson and Rachin Ravindra, who impressed at the 2023 ODI World Cup and recently showcased his talent in the ongoing Test series against South Africa.

“It’s never ideal missing two of your best players for such a big series but we do have a lot of faith in the guys coming in,” selector Sam Wells said. “Josh hits the ball as long and as hard as anyone, and Rachin’s talent and class has been clear to all over the past six months.”

The second and third T20 matches against Australia will be played at Auckland’s Eden Park on February 23rd and 25th.

New Zealand Squad for T20I Series Against Australia

Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Mitchell Santner (captain)