Trent Boult takes three-fer in his 100th ODI: Key stats
The 2nd ODI between England and New Zealand at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, finally kicked off after rain delayed the toss. Notably, the two teams will square off in a 34 overs-a-side contest. It marked the 100th appearance of New Zealand seamer Trent Boult in the format. Boult made his ODI comeback memorable by taking three wickets. He ran through England's top order.
Why does this story matter?
Boult's release from the central contract allowed him to play in various domestic leagues and spend more time with his family. In June this year, NZC offered him the "casual playing agreement" as the fast bowler confirmed his availability for a part of the playing program. Boult, who is playing his 100th ODI, is now expected to seal the 2023 ICC World Cup berth.
25th NZ player to play 100 ODIs
Boult is the 25th player to represent New Zealand in 100 ODIs. In a career spanning over a decade, the left-arm pacer has also played 78 Tests and 55 T20Is for the Black Caps.
Boult closing in on 200 ODI wickets
Boult has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers across formats. His ability to swing the ball both ways at a decent pace has troubled several great batters. As of now, the left-arm seamer has scalped 190 wickets from 100 games at an economy of 4.93 (5W: 5). Before this match, Boult played for the Black Caps during the 2022 T20 World Cup.
Boult strikes with three wickets
Boult was on fire in his first ODI in over a year. The left-arm pacer struck straightaway after the Kiwis elected to field. He dismissed Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root on the first three deliveries of his second over. Boult then dismissed Ben Stokes as England were reduced to 8/3. The former took three wickets for 37 runs in seven overs, including a maiden.
Second-most wickets after first 100 ODIs
Boult and Mitchell Starc are the only bowlers with 190 or more wickets in their first 100 ODIs. The latter tops this list with 196 wickets. Saqlian Mushtaq (189), Brett Lee (179), and Allan Donald (170) follow suit.
