Trent Boult, a world-class fast bowler, was released from his central contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Wednesday at his own request so he could travel less and be with his family more.

The 33-year-old, who has participated in 137 international limited overs matches and 70 tests since 2011, will still play for his nation but in a "substantially reduced position," according to NZC. This has been a pretty difficult choice for me. I've always wanted to play cricket for my nation, and I'm really pleased of everything I've accomplished," Boult said in a statement to the NZC.

"In the end, this choice will affect my wife Gert and our three young boys. My family has always been my greatest source of motivation, and I am happy to prioritise them above cricket while getting ready for life beyond the game.

Over the last ten years, Boult and Tim Southee have been one of the most frightening strike combinations in international cricket. They helped New Zealand win the first World Test Championship last year and go to the finals of the last two 50-over World Cups.

The left-arm fast has 317 test wickets, 169 ODI wickets, and another 62 T20 wickets under his belt.

According to NZC, Boult has decided to make himself available for domestic leagues and has acknowledged that his choice will have an effect on his international career.

Boult continued, "I still have a strong desire to serve my country and believe I am capable of doing so on a global scale.

The COVID-19 epidemic has forced elite cricketers to travel more frequently and for longer periods of time than before, while they have always spent a lot of time away from home.

According to NZC CEO David White, "We appreciate Trent's perspective."

"While we're sorry to be losing him as a fully-contracted player, he leaves with our best wishes and our heartfelt appreciation," the statement said. "He's been absolutely honest and up-front with us about his explanation."

Boult went on the 2007 winter training trip with the New Zealand A squad. He defeated India's Under-19 squad on February 9th, 2007, by taking two wickets for 28 runs and adding seven unbeaten runs. Then, in February 2008, he went to Malaysia for the Under-19 World Cup.

Boult, who was only 19 years old, was chosen for the New Zealand team on January 21 for the one-day series against Australia. Boult was only able to participate in the warm-up match against the Prime Minister's XI, and he bowled seven overs without picking up a wicket. Boult was the New Zealand team's quickest bowler throughout the trip, clocking in at a top speed of 143.3 km/h (89.0 mph).