New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has agreed to release veteran pacer Trent Boult from his player contract to allow him to spend more time with his family and feature in domestic leagues around the globe.
The 33-year-old requested to be released and after a series of conversations with NZC, the cricket board accepted his request and confirmed the development with an official release on Twitter.
What this means for Boult's international future is now a big question mark, as his role for the 'Blackcaps' will be significantly reduced if at all following the release from the list of contracted players.
NZC chief executive David White stated in the release that the seamer had made it clear during discussions that his appetite for touring had "diminished", and that he wished to spend more time with his family.
“We respect Trent’s position,” said Mr White. “He’s been completely honest and up-front with us about his reasoning and, while we’re sad to be losing him as a fully-contracted player, he leaves with our best wishes and our sincere thanks.
“Trent’s made a massive contribution to the BLACKCAPS since his Test debut in late 2011 and is now considered one of the best multi-format cricketers in the world. We’re very proud of what he’s achieved.”
Mr White added he was confident that Boult had understood what the decision meant in terms of his international playing future for New Zealand.
“We’ve had several conversations and I know Trent understands that, in terms of selection, NZC will continue to make a priority of those players with either central or domestic contracts.”
Boult said it had been a difficult call to make for him.
“This has been a really tough decision for me and I’d like to thank NZC for their support in getting to this point,” he said.
“Playing cricket for my country was a childhood dream and I’m so proud of everything I’ve been able to achieve with the BLACKCAPS over the past 12 years.
“Ultimately this decision is about my wife Gert and our three young boys. Family has always been the biggest motivator for me and I feel comfortable with putting it first and preparing ourselves for life after cricket.”
Boult says he understands the move would diminish his chances of playing for New Zealand in future.
“I still have a big desire to represent my country and feel I have the skills to deliver at the international level. However, I respect the fact that not having a national contract will affect my chances of selection.
“Having said that, as a fast bowler I know I have a limited career span, and I feel the time is right to move into this next phase.”
