Kane Williamson paid rich tribute to Trent Boult.
The pacer had already confirmed that the ongoing tournament would be his “last T20 World Cup”.
“It feels a little bit weird, a few emotions obviously the last couple of days,” said Boult in a video shared by ICC.
Pressed on whether the game represented his final New Zealand appearance, Boult added an element of doubt: “I haven’t thought much further than this, I’m in no position to comment right now. I enjoyed being out there one last time.”
Afghanistan and tournament co-hosts the West Indies had earlier defeated the Black Caps in Group C, putting an end to their chances of qualifying for the second round Super Eights. Papua New Guinea was also eliminated before to the match, which took place in front of a low crowd at Brian Lara Stadium.
Boult got two wickets for 14 runs as PNG was skittled out for 78 in one innings.
“Gutted to not go any further, but I’m very proud of what I’ve done with the Black Caps and sad it’s my last day with New Zealand,” said Boult.
Here is the video:
The 34-year-old has been sparingly called up for international action after being freed from his New Zealand central contract in August 2022, allowing him to participate in more domestic T20 competitions abroad.
The swing bowler did play in New Zealand's 50-over World Cup campaign last year, reaching the semi-finals before losing to tournament hosts India by 70 runs at a crowded Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Boult’s tally of 317 wickets in 78 Tests, is the fourth highest by any New Zealand bowler. Longstanding new-ball colleague Tim Southee is second, behind Richard Hadlee.
“I’ve shared a dressing room with Tim Southee for well over a dozen years. “It’s a partnership I’ve enjoyed forming, and we’re very good friends off the field,” said Boult who won the 2021 World Test Championship for New Zealand.
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson paid tribute to Boult by saying he had been a “great servant of the game” who was “consistent in all formats”.
“It’ll be sad to see him go, it’s been quite special being with him throughout his career. He’s got such an attitude for getting better. He trains very hard, he’s as fit as he’s ever been. He knows how he wants to operate in all formats. He sticks his chest out and performs well for his country.
He’s made a fantastic contribution to our game and he’s created a space for new players to come in and meet the standard that he’s set,” Williamson said.
(AFP inputs)