Trent Boult returns to New Zealand squad for England series

Boult is likely to feature in his first ODI since the Blackcaps' tour of Australia almost a year ago, with the World Cup a couple of months away

Trent Boult will make his New Zealand return for their ODI series against England in September, a month before the World Cup in India.

Boult is likely to feature in his first ODI since the Blackcaps' tour of Australia almost a year ago.

A month earlier, the left-armer had been released from a central contract to give him more flexibility around franchise cricket and his family life.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead talked up his comeback. "It's great to welcome Trent back into our ODI unit as he begins his preparation towards the World Cup in India," he said.

The left-arm quick has 187 ODI wickets in 99 matches to his name, at an average of 23.97 and an economy of 4.93. He played a pivotal role in the 2019 World Cup final, delivering the super over for New Zealand.

Also making a return to the 15-strong squad is Kyle Jamieson following a back injury; his last appearance for New Zealand came against England in June 2022.

^{Boult in action for Rajasthan Royals earlier this year (Biju Boro/AFP via Getty Images)}

"He's been working extremely hard on his rehabilitation following back surgery and we're looking forward to seeing him back playing on the International stage," Stead added.

Mark Chapman and Jimmy Neesham have been left out of the squad as the pair are both expecting the births of their first child, while Ish Sodhi will return home after the T20I series against England to spend more time with his family.

Kane Williamson remains unavailable after he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in April, but he will still link up with the squad in England to continue on with his rehabilitation.

Following the surgery to repair his ruptured Achilles in June, Michael Bracewell isn't available for selection.

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