NZ plan to experiment against India - 'We've got a different role for Allen'

New Zealand are considering a new role for explosive batter 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 opens in T20 cricket, could be used to attack spinners and part-time bowlers during the middle overs.

"We've got a different role in mind for Finn in the middle order. So we want to explore that as an option, obviously given his capability to influence the game," Walter said, as quoted by PTI, during a virtual media interaction.

He explained that the team wants a batter who can change the pace of the game between overs 25 and 40, particularly when batting conditions are favourable.

"We actually want to see what it looks like to have someone in the middle order just taking on 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 a concern

Walter said New Zealand are carefully managing their fast bowlers ahead of a busy schedule. Will O'Rourke is gradually returning after a lower-back injury, while Ben Sears is recovering from ankle surgery.

"The injury is sort of recovered and we're pretty happy with that, but there's obviously just a real safe loading pattern for him to get into to be ready for Test match cricket," Walter said about 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 feature only in the final two ODIs against India as part of the workload-management plan.

"He is desperate to play and he's made no bones about that, which is awesome. I love that. But it's also just taking the right steps to the process because a number of other guys have been playing in the meantime and doing well."

Youngsters and coaching changes

Walter also highlighted the value of New Zealand A players facing India A to gain experience against strong opposition.

New Zealand have appointed former wicketkeeper-batter BJ Watling as batting coach, a move Walter believes will strengthen the team.

"He has a massive amount of respect already in the change room before having said a word," Walter said.

"I'm exceptionally excited by what he can bring to the group."