In a surprising announcement, Boult declared his retirement from international cricket in 2024 

Trent Boult, born on July 22, 1989, is celebrated as one of New Zealand's premier pace bowlers. His international debut came in 2011, and since then, he has been an integral part of the Black Caps, excelling in Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals. Boult's illustrious international career, spanning over a decade, made him a linchpin in New Zealand's bowling attack. 

In a surprising announcement, Boult declared retirement from international cricket following New Zealand's final Group C match against Papua New Guinea at the 2024 T20 ICC Cricket World Cup. The game, held at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, marked the end of an era for New Zealand cricket.

As the left arm pacer reaches 35 years today, let us reveal some secrets about his life.

The dawn of a new era 

Boult was part of the illustrious cohort of young cricketers who competed in the Under-19 World Cup 2008. This tournament featured an exceptionally talented group of players who would have remarkable international careers. Among them were Phillip Hughes, Josh Hazlewood, Steven Smith, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Ahmed Shehzad, Umar Akmal, Dinesh Chandimal, Darren Bravo, Wayne Parnell, Steven Finn, Chris Woakes, and Rubel Hossain.

Trent Boult and Tim Southee during a test match 

New Zealand's squad for that tournament included several future stars like Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Corey Anderson, and Hamish Rutherford. Here, Boult and Southee formed their lethal opening bowling partnership, a precursor to the formidable duo dominating international cricket for years. Boult's standout performance came against Malaysia, delivering a devastating spell and taking seven wickets for just 20 runs.

A historic win and a promising start 

In the 2011-12 season, Boult stepped onto the international stage with his Test debut during the second Test against Australia at Hobart. This match was significant as New Zealand won by seven runs, marking their first Test victory in Australia since 1985 and their first win over Australia since 1993. He took four wickets in total. 

He dismissed Mike Hussey, James Pattinson, and Mitchell Starc with figures of three for 29 in the first innings and took the wicket of Usman Khawaja in the second innings with one for 51. Boult added 21 essential runs in a tenth-wicket partnership with Chris Martin during the second innings, contributing significantly to New Zealand's challenging target.

Trent Boult along with his brother // Picture Courtesy - The Indian Express 

A cricketing contrast 

Boult is the younger brother of Jono Boult, who also plays for the Northern Districts in domestic cricket. Older by about three years, Jono contrasts his brother's role as a spinning all-rounder. Interestingly, while Trent bats right-handed and delivers the ball with his left arm, Jono does the reverse, bowling with his right arm and batting left-handed. This unique family dynamic highlights the diverse, cricketing talents of the Boult siblings.

Trent Boult appealing for a wicket in the 2019 World Cup 

Fast bowling legend 

As one of the top New Zealand bowlers with over 100 Test wickets, Boult is distinguished, ranking fourth in both career average and strike rate. Richard Hadlee's records are legendary, but Boult's average of 28.75 is close to Bruce Taylor's 26.60, and his strike rate of 58.1, though not as low as Neil Wagner's 54.1, is better than Taylor's 57. Boult's performances over almost a decade have cemented his status as a premier New Zealand fast bowler.

More than just a bowler 

Though Boult is primarily celebrated for his bowling prowess, he has also shown he can hold his own with the bat. His crucial 127-run partnership with BJ Watling against Bangladesh in 2013, where he scored his first Test half-century, showcased his batting capabilities. With 42 not outs to his name, Boult boasts a solid Test batting average of 15.61, proving that he can contribute significantly down the order.