In the absence of Tim Southee and Matt Henry, speed
bowler Trent Boult will have to shoulder the majority of the load for New
Zealand in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, according to
stand-in skipper Lockie Ferguson.
Boult, who decided to forego his national contract and
has been involved with many T20 franchise assignments across the world,
demonstrated that he had much to contribute in ODI cricket by taking eight
wickets in two games against England, including a five-wicket haul.
“Clearly a guy with a lot of experience (Boult)
and certainly really enjoying him back within the group. Straightaway in
England, he came in and he was exceptional. It was challenging to bowl quick.
The scores were high in England and his expertise and calmness under pressure
was irreplaceable,” Ferguson told reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National
Stadium, a day ahead of the series opener.
“So I guess without Tim (Southee) and Matt Henry,
Boult’s gonna have a bigger leadership role as he always does. But he’s
certainly a gem for us and I certainly enjoy playing alongside and, you know,
I’m sure if it’s swinging tomorrow, he’s one of the guys who’ll get some swing
out of it,” he said.
Ferguson stressed that the series served as a lead-up
to the World Cup and added that his teammates were enthusiastic about it
despite the possibility that they may be asked to send the younger players back
to New Zealand in order to create room for their preferred World Cup selection.
“Look, we’re professionals and we take every game
as it comes. This is a big series for us and a very challenging one. So, from
our point of view, it’s good build-up for a World Cup; but at the same time,
you know, we’re very much focused on this series.
“We know how strong Bangladesh are in their home
conditions, so it’s a good challenge for us against them. And it’s my first
time playing here, so certainly plenty to learn on my behalf. But the boys are
really looking forward to tomorrow and getting underway,” said Ferguson.