'World Cup is a very big stage but probably second to that is playing India in India.'
India's batters will be relieved that Trent Boult will not be a part of the upcoming two-Test series as the Black Caps' senior pacer feels that he needs to refresh and rejuvenate after 12 weeks of continuous cricket.
Boult will play in the T20 International series in India but will head back home from Kolkata after the third and final T20I as he takes a break before being back against Bangladesh for a home Test series.
"World Cup is a very big stage but probably second to that is playing India in India. I think boys are definitely looking forward to it and just adapting to it and reading the wicket is going to be a big play over here as well," Boult was quoted as saying in a video released by New Zealand Cricket.
Boult, who also featured in the second leg of the IPL before the T20 World Cup, said that he is now looking forward to the New Zealand summer.
"Everyone obviously looks forward to the New Zealand Summer and what they are coming up. I am looking forward to getting the red ball back in my hand when I get a chance and yes, it has been 12 or so weeks away already so just looking forward to refresh a little bit and then taking on the New Zealand Summer."
Boult, who was part of the New Zealand team which lost to Australia in the T20 World Cup, said the defeat in the title clash was a bitter pill to swallow.
"It still hurts a little bit to swallow that result but life goes on in a way but got back to hotel, bags were out and we were on a chartered flight to Jaipur and now in the hotel,'' the left-arm pacer said.
Boult is happy that New Zealand's white-ball team is in a 'good position' having now played three finals in last six years.
"We had some good chances as we came into the tournament. Great win against England (in the semi-final) and chance for that last dance and that great final. Obviously, it's hurting, may be next time, pretty much. Bit of shame to be on wrong side of the result,' the fast bowler said.
Boult was happy with how the younger crop of players performed and feels that this will keep the team in good stead for the next T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022.
"Overall pleasing job, bit of shame to be on wrong side of result. It was a great learning really for youngsters, the pressure and hype that comes in with a World Cup. But life goes on quickly," he added.
New Zealand will play India in a three-match T20I series -- Jaipur (November 17), Ranchi (Nov 19) and Kolkata (Nov 21). The two Tests will be played in Kanpur (Nov 25-29) and Mumbai (Dec 3-7).
© 2024 Rediff.com -