"You don't feel at all that this guy should go now" - Aakash Chopra on Trent Boult retiring from international cricket

Aakash Chopra reckons Trent Boult has taken premature retirement from international cricket. The New Zealand left-arm seamer has stated that he would no longer represent his country after the Kiwis' exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup.

With nine scalps at an average of 6.55 and an economy rate of 3.68 in four games, Boult was New Zealand's most successful bowler in the ongoing T20 World Cup. He has picked up 317 wickets in 78 Tests and 294 scalps in 175 international white-ball games.

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra noted that Boult's retirement has left him heartbroken.

"Trent Boult has said that he won't play. I was heartbroken. He is 34 years old and if you have seen him bowl, whether in this World Cup or the IPL, you don't feel at all that this guy should go now. He has taken 317 Test wickets, which means he was the cornerstone of New Zealand's fast bowling - (Tim) Southee at one end and Trent Boult with him," he said (8:05).

However, the former India opener added that he understands the financial reasons due to which the potent new-ball bowler might have taken the call.

"He has gone early and we need to understand why he has gone early. You don't get much money through the central contract or while playing for New Zealand. If you see their cricket, their team does so well, plays (wins) the WTC final, but still plays a two-match Test series because no broadcaster puts in money there," Chopra elaborated.

Chopra pointed out that everybody has to look after themselves and earn a living for their family. He added that being a fast bowler, he couldn't have played till 40.

---

"We are not at all in a position to say that you are doing wrong" - Aakash Chopra on Trent Boult's decision

Trent Boult played for the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024. [P/C: iplt20.com]

Aakash Chopra noted that privileged Indian cricketers can't complain about Trent Boult's decision.

"It's a part of the changing landscape. Don't forget that there are many countries where once you become former cricketers, no matter how big they are, some live a life of luxury but others have to work hard, unlike me. I am a 10-Test-match guy but since we are Indian and Indian cricket's ecosystem is so good, the house is managed easily. We are not at all in a position to say that you are doing wrong," he explained.

The cricketer-turned-commentator added that Kane Williamson refusing a central contract is also a massive development.

"Kane Williamson has also taken an important step. He has become the first captain to refuse a central contract. He used to captain all three formats and do it very well, used to take the team forward and make it qualify and reach the final, but he is done. If Kane Williamson, who is part of the Fab Four has made this decision, you know which way the water is flowing - big news," Chopra observed.

Chopra pointed out that Williamson hasn't retired from international cricket but has turned down a contract as he could then opt out of games. He added that the New Zealand batting great will have the option of plying his trade in leagues like the IPL even if the Kiwis are playing a series at the same time.