New Zealand pacer Trent Boult has said that there will “be a bit of banter” and “few smiles shared” among the players from the two teams who play in IPL. Boult represents Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians in the IPL.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Trent Boult said that he was sure of banter with his Mumbai Indians teammates
• Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah, who are in India’s 20-man squad for WTC final, also play for MI in IPL
• Trent Boult took 6 wickets in New Zealand’s recently-concluded 2nd Test vs England

New Zealand pacer Trent Boult has said that he was “sure” of a little banter with his Mumbai Indians in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final vs India in Southampton from June 18.

Boult added that many of his New Zealand teammates are familiar with their Indian counterparts due to the IPL and so playing against them is “a little different”.

“It’s a little different, (we’ve seen) a few IPL players and guys we’re familiar with from certain teams. I haven’t seen any of my fellow Mumbai Indians yet and I’m sure there will be a bit of banter and a few smiles shared.

“Obviously with social distancing everyone is keeping their distance and it’s one of those unique situations,” Trent Boult said.

Further, the 31-year-old said that the recent Test-series victory over England would not count for much when they will clash with India in the WTC final, Black Caps pacer Trent Boult said on Tuesday.

The New Zealand team arrived in Southampton on Tuesday for the inaugural World Test Championship final, starting June 18 at the Ageas Bowl.

New Zealand beat hosts England by eight wickets in the second Test at Edgbaston to clinch the series 1-0. Opener Tom Latham led the side in the absence of Kane Williamson, who is now available for the WTC final.

“I don’t think it counts for much. Good preparation, and good for everyone to have a hit out and get some time under their belt,” said Boult who himself made a return to competitive cricket with match figures of 6-119 in the second Test.

Trent Boult had missed the first Test as he joined the squad late in England.

“Just really looking forward to this week, can’t wait, and hopefully we can continue on our good form,” Bolt added.