As per reports, Star Sports has requested ICC for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy to be held in the T20 format. Many players would have planned their ODI careers around the milestone of the Champions Trophy. If the tournament is turned into a T20 competition, the fate of these players in ODIs could be different. On that note, here, we take a look at three Kiwis who might retire from ODIs immediately if the 2025 Champions Trophy is played in the T20 format.
1) Tim Southee
Tim Southee is the current Test captain of New Zealand. Hence, his utmost preference will be for this format. In the 2023 ODI World Cup, he missed quite a few games due to injury.
Southee still holds a place in the T20 setup, as well. Considering all these factors, the veteran could hang up his boots in the 50-over format in the near future.
2) Trent Boult
Trent Boult is one of the Kiwis who might retire from the ODIs immediately if the 2025 Champions Trophy is played in the T20 format. Even if the Champions Trophy continues to be an ODI competition, Boult could retire from ODIs soon.
That said, if New Zealand does not win the World Cup, Boult would prefer one more chance at an ICC white-ball silverware. Therefore, he could extend his stay in ODIs until 2025. He has the fitness and form to do that.
3) James Neesham
Based on the current New Zealand ODI combination, it appears that Neesham is not a starter. Hence, his place could be in danger after the 2023 ODI World Cup.
On the other hand, Neesham has work to do if he has to become a more reliable T20 cricketer for T20 franchises. Since this would secure his financial future, Neesham could switch his complete attention to the T20 format. Hence, he is on this list.
