Veteran fast bowler Trent Boult’s farewell to T20 internationals was a bittersweet moment for New Zealand cricket. The 34-year-old took the field for the final time in the 2024 T20 World Cup against Papua New Guinea (PNG) on Monday at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad.

Trent Boult hugs his NZ teammates

Boult had announced his retirement from the format just days earlier, following New Zealand’s match against Uganda. Though the Black Caps failed to qualify for the Super 8 stage, they ensured Boult had a memorable final appearance.

In a heartwarming gesture captured on video by the ICC, Boult’s teammates gathered around him before the start of the match. They shared warm hugs and pats on the back, clearly recognizing his immense contribution to the team, especially in World Cup tournaments.

Boult, visibly emotional, acknowledged their appreciation. He then went on to deliver a stellar performance in his last T20 World Cup outing, taking 2/14 in his four overs and helping New Zealand comfortably dismantle PNG’s batting lineup.

Here’s the video:

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Is it the end of road for Trent Boult?

While Boult says goodbye to T20 internationals, he remains available for Test and ODI cricket. This emotional send-off is a testament to the respect he commands within the New Zealand camp and the cricketing world as a whole.

“Feels a bit weird, a few emotions over the last couple of days, gutted to not go further, but proud of what I’ve done in the Black Cap,” Boult said in the post-match interview.

When asked if it’s the last international game for him, the left-arm seamer remarked, “I haven’t thought much further than this. I’m in no position to comment right now.”

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