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After suffering two heartbreaking losses, New Zealand secured their first victory in the T20 World Cup 2024 by defeating Uganda by nine wickets, finishing the match with over 14 overs to spare after bowling Uganda out for just 40 runs. Trent Boult, who took two wickets for seven runs in his four overs, announced in the post-match press conference that this would be his final T20 World Cup.

“Speaking on behalf of myself, this will be my last T20 World Cup. That’s all I have to say,” Boult stated.

The 34-year-old expressed disappointment as New Zealand is already out of contention for the Super 8 stage.

“It’s definitely not the start we wanted in the tournament. It’s a hard one to take. Just gutted we’re not going any further. But any time you get to represent the country, it’s a proud moment,” he said.

Boult, who opted out of the central contract in 2022 to focus on T20 franchise cricket, acknowledged the immense talent present in the New Zealand dressing room.

Reflecting on the tournament, Boult pointed out that New Zealand’s batting has been a weak link and noted the low scores overall. So far, only Australia has managed to post a total exceeding 200. Boult remarked that the pitches have not provided a fair balance between bat and ball.

Trent Boult will make his final T20 World Cup appearance against Papua New Guinea on June 17, that will be New Zealand’s last match in the competition this year. Alongside Boult, Tim Southee and Kane Williamson are also likely to make their last appearances in the marquee event, although there is nothing concrete about these players.

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