Exclusive: Trent Boult on reverse swing, Bumrah-Arshdeep and India's Test tour of New Zealand

Trent Boult opens up about his experience in T10 cricket and the evolving art of swing bowling. As a winner of the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup, Boult is recognized as one of New Zealand's finest left-arm fast bowlers. Currently, he plays franchise cricket globally, including for the Emirates Eagles in the Abu Dhabi T10 League. Boult describes the T10 format as fast-paced and action-packed with plenty of excitement, despite the challenges bowlers face due to limited overs per player. He acknowledges the balance between bat and ball needs improvement but enjoys the format as he keeps returning year after year.

Boult reveals he would implement rule changes such as reducing the powerplay or adding extra fielders in the powerplay to help bowlers regain an advantage. He also passionately advocates for the return of using saliva on the ball, which is currently banned, noting it would enhance swing bowling and restore some lost art to the game. While reverse swing is nearly extinct at top levels due to regulations and the limitations placed on ball maintenance, Boult hopes it can make a comeback eventually.

Discussing the future of conventional swing, Boult admits it's becoming rarer but still thrives in certain conditions like Abu Dhabi's warm nights. He recalls his admiration for the skill and challenge of bowling swing to batsmen like Kieron Pollard, describing Pollard as one of the best T20 players. Boult reflects on his passion for swing bowling since childhood, hoping it continues to inspire new generations of bowlers.

Boult also touches on his ongoing focus on T10 cricket even as he keeps an eye on IPL developments involving teammates and potential pace attacks with fellow bowlers. Looking ahead, he expresses excitement for the upcoming Test series between India and New Zealand, praising the quality of both teams and the significance of the contest amid World Test Championship stakes.