Trent Boult

Trent Boult, the left-arm swing specialist from New Zealand, began his professional journey with a First-Class debut for the New Zealand ‘A’ side during their 2007 tour of India, before representing his country at the 2008 Under-19 World Cup. Although he was around the national setup for a while, Boult made his Test debut in December 2011 at Hobart and made an immediate impact by dismissing Michael Hussey as his first Test wicket. His four-wicket haul in that match played a key role in New Zealand’s historic Test win in Australia - their first since 1985.

Boult quickly established himself as a consistent wicket-taker across conditions, delivering standout performances against major teams. One of his early career highlights came at the Basin Reserve against West Indies, where he claimed his maiden 10-wicket match haul and earned his first Man of the Match award. His strong Test performances paved the way for opportunities in white-ball cricket, including selection for the 2014 T20 World Cup, where he impressed in limited appearances.

Renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways at pace, Boult became a vital part of New Zealand’s bowling attack. His excellence peaked during the 2015 ODI World Cup, where he finished as the joint-highest wicket-taker with 22 wickets. His memorable spell of 5 for 28 against Australia in the group stage underlined his match-winning ability, while other strong performances throughout the tournament solidified his reputation as one of the premier fast bowlers in world cricket.

Over the years, Boult formed a formidable partnership with Tim Southee and emerged as a leader of New Zealand’s pace attack. His success continued in global tournaments, including the 2019 ODI World Cup, where he picked up a hat-trick against Australia and played a crucial role in New Zealand’s run to the final. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, he was New Zealand’s leading wicket-taker as they finished runners-up once again.

In 2022, Boult made a significant career decision by opting out of his central contract with New Zealand Cricket to focus on family and franchise cricket. Despite criticism, he remained an impactful presence when selected, including featuring in the 2023 ODI World Cup, though with modest returns. Following a disappointing 2024 T20 World Cup campaign, Boult announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a distinguished career marked by consistency and understated excellence.

In franchise cricket, Boult has been equally influential, particularly in the IPL. After starting with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2015, he had brief stints with Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals, including a strong 2018 season. His defining IPL campaign came in 2020 with Mumbai Indians, where he played a pivotal role in their title-winning run with 25 wickets and a Man of the Match performance in the final. He later joined Rajasthan Royals, contributing consistently over three seasons and helping them reach the 2022 final. Ahead of the 2025 IPL auctions, Boult was released by Rajasthan Royals and subsequently rejoined Mumbai Indians, marking a return to a franchise where he had previously enjoyed immense success.

In IPL 2025, Trent Boult reaffirmed his status as one of the league’s most effective new-ball bowlers after rejoining Mumbai Indians. He played 16 matches, picked up 22 wickets and finished among the season’s leading wicket-takers. With best figures of 4/26, an average around 23.5, and an economy close to 9, Boult was Mumbai’s top wicket-taker and a key driver of their playoff run.

Beyond the numbers, his real impact came in the powerplay, where he consistently struck early and disrupted opposition top orders, often partnering effectively with Jasprit Bumrah. His ability to swing the new ball and set the tone upfront allowed Mumbai’s attack to control the middle overs more efficiently.

Trent Boult remains central to Mumbai Indians’ bowling plans. He will continue to lead the powerplay attack, tasked with early breakthroughs and building pressure in the first six overs. Alongside Bumrah, he also brings experience and balance to the pace unit. If he maintains his 2025 form and delivers in key moments, Boult is once again set to play a decisive role for Mumbai Indians.