Trent Boult will not appear for the second Test against South Africa at the Hagley Oval this week. New Zealand is not willing to risk an injury to the fast bowler had no sufficient time to train to bear the workload.
Trent Boult misses the win in the first Test
Trent Boult missed New Zealand’s victory triumph in the first Test as he and his wife happily welcomed their third child. The 32-year-old will practice with the team ahead of this week’s Test. Boult will appear for New Zealand only in June during the England tour. New Zealand Cricket is expected to allow players who are playing Indian Premier League 2022 to miss the series against the Netherlands.
Gary stead, New Zealand coach stated that Trent Boult is not available for the Test match due to the workload and the state at which he is now. Since he is on paternity leave, he will miss out on a lot of opportunities to play and bowl. The risk of him playing in the team is huge and Stead that he cannot make do this to him at the moment.
Trent Boult’s Absence- Opportunity for other bowlers
Trent Boult’s absence in the first Test cleared the way for Matt Henry’s inclusion in the squad. Henry grabbed the opportunity by exhibiting a magnificent 7 wicket haul in the first innings. His performance helped New Zealand dominate South Africa by an innings and 276 runs.
Stead stated that Henry has been a very good bowler and people like him need that opportunity to shine and make the most of it and he proved it.
New Zealand’s need for a spinner
New Zealand hesitated in bringing in a specialist spinner considering the conditions in Christchurch. Since New Zealand is in need of a spin option, all-rounder Rachin Ravindra remains available. Ajaz Patel is yet to return to Plunkett Shield after picking up an injury.
Stead concluded by saying that they cannot underestimate the Proteas as they are a stronger side. He feels that the team got it right this time but he also expects SA to come back strongly.
