Not Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma: Trent Boult picks Indian batsman as 'toughest' opponent

New Zealand's speedster Trent Boult is widely looked on as one of the best fast bowlers in modern-day game. Previous year, Boult emerged as a pathbreaker when he opted out of New Zealand's central contract list, becoming an independent player for the side. Since then, Boult has featured in many T20 leagues – the latest being the DP World International League T20 in the UAE, where he played for the MI Emirates, a sister franchise of Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai Indians.

The MI Emirates got to the playoffs of the tournament before facing a loss to Gujarat Giants in the second playoff match in Dubai. Regardless, the MI Emirates had an spectacular competition and Trent Boult remained one of the crucial members of the team all through their campaign.

“That's the challenge you want. You come to the tournament not knowing what to expect. The standards of cricket is exceptional. There's been some great performances. The quality is there among all six sides. Teams are stacked with lots of talent,” Boult told Hindustan Times.

MI Emirates had the like of Kieron Pollard and Nicholas Pooran, who are widely considered as one of the best hitters in the format. However, when we asked Boult on who was the toughest batsman he faced, Boult named two players including an Indian; surprisingly, it was not Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma, but KL Rahul.

“That's a tricky question. There are so many batters. I've always found (Chris) Gayle very hard to bowl to, I've found KL Rahul very hard to bowl to. Polly (Pollard) would be up there as well,” Boult said.

“T20 cricket is one of those games where guys are out there trying to express themselves, take the game on, no fear. Pretty exciting product, really.”

The New Zealand pacer is expected to be in action for the Rajasthan Royals in the 2023 edition of the Indian Premier League.

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