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Gavin Larsen, the chief selector for New Zealand, is optimistic that fast bowler Trent Boult will lead the nation's bowling attack at the ODI World Cup in India later this year.

In order to make himself available for T20 leagues around the world, Boult and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) last year reached an agreement to have him released from his central contract. He is currently playing for MI Emirates in the International League T20 of the United Arab Emirates.

The 33-year-old has expressed a desire to compete in the World Cup, but his attendance at the event has not yet been officially confirmed.

However, Larsen told SENZ Mornings: "The door is very much open," adding that Boult is in constant talks with head coach Gary Stead.

"Gary and Trent talk on a regular basis. We all know Boulty's pedigree, his experience and just what a great match-winner he is and has been over the years for us," he said.

The left-arm quick, who has the exceptional ability to swing the ball both ways, is one of the best bowling talents in all formats of the game.

"We want him to be involved, we'd love him to be involved, we understand entirely his situation so we will keep working with him," Larsen said.

"We've got a World Cup at the end of the year and I've got my fingers crossed that if the stars align that we'll have a certain Trent Boult opening the bowling for us."

The relatively inexperienced New Zealand pace attack struggled in the recently concluded white-ball series in India without Boult and the seasoned Tim Southee.