IND vs NZ: NZ plan to experiment against India – ‘We have a different role in mind for Finn Allen’

Finn Allen (Reuters photo) New Zealand are considering a new role for explosive batsman Finn Allen in the upcoming ODI series against India, with head coach Rob Walter keen to test him in the middle order ahead of the next World Cup. Allen, who usually starts in T20 cricket, could be used to attack spinners and part-time bowlers during the middle overs.“We have a different role in mind for Finn in the middle order. So we want to explore that as an option, obviously given his ability to influence the game,” PTI quoted Walter as saying during a virtual media interaction.He explained that the team wants a batsman who can vary the pace of the game between 25 and 40, especially when the batting conditions are favourable.“We actually want to see what it looks like when someone in the middle order takes over the game,” he said.New Zealand will play five T20Is and five ODIs against India, followed by a two-match Test series. The matches will help the team test different combinations and prepare for future international assignments.

Fast-bowling workload remains an issue

Walter said New Zealand were carefully managing their fast bowlers ahead of the busy schedule. Will O’Rourke is gradually coming back from a lower back injury, while Ben Sears is recovering from ankle surgery.“The injury has recovered a bit and we’re quite happy with that, but obviously there’s only a real safe pattern he needs to get into to be ready for Test match cricket,” Walter said of O’Rourke.The team hopes O’Rourke will be available for the Test series against Australia. Sears is expected to start running soon before gradually returning to bowling.Lockie Ferguson will only feature in the final two ODIs against India as part of a workload management plan.“He’s desperate to play and he hasn’t made a big deal out of it, which is amazing. I like that. But it’s also just taking the right steps to the process because there have been a number of other guys playing and doing well in the meantime.”

Youth and coaching changes

Walter also highlighted the value of the New Zealand A players facing India A to gain experience against strong opposition.New Zealand have appointed former batsman BJ Watling as batting coach, a move that Walter believes will strengthen the squad.“He’s got a lot of respect in the locker room before he says a word,” Walter said.“I am exceptionally excited about what he can bring to the group.”