Despite his success in New Zealand's 3-0 Chappell-Hadlee series defeat to Australia, Trent Boult's future as a Blackcap is by no means certain, concedes coach Gary Stead.
After being released from his NZ Cricket contract last month, Boult was far and away the best of the Kiwi bowlers in Australia, even as the wait for a first win across the Tasman since 2009 continued.
The left-armer took a series-leading 10 wickets at an average of 10.30 and an economy rate of 3.43 runs per over - the best bowler across the three matches on either side.
But as an uncontracted player 33-year-old Boult is no certainty to be a regular for the Blackcaps going forward.
Since his release, Boult has already signed to play for Melbourne Stars in Australia's Big Bash League and for Mumbai Indians Emirates in the UAE's International League T20, as well as remaining with Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League.
With contracting for next year's South Africa, English and West Indian tournaments still to take place, Boult's time as a Blackcap in 2023 could be limited to just the World Cup in India.
Boult has indicated he's eager to continue in test cricket, but is unsure if his availability will rule him out of selection.
Coach Stead says the team are at peace with Boult's decision, but need to begin planning for life without him.
"Trent's made his decision around that and we respect that," Stead said. "He's been a fine bowler - and still is a fine bowler - for New Zealand and that showed through this series against Australia.
"If Trent is there, we look like a stronger team, but we have to make some decisions around what that looks like for us going forward. We do have to keep developing our depth underneath it."
With no overlapping club commitments, Boult will be available for the Blackcaps' next assignment - a tri-series against Pakistan and Bangladesh in New Zealand - as preparation for this year's T20 World Cup in Australia.
The Blackcaps will kick off the Twenty20 World Cup against hosts Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 22.
