New Zealand to Experiment with Finn Allen's Role Against India

New Zealand is set to explore a different batting position for Finn Allen in the upcoming ODI series against India, as announced by head coach Rob Walter. The team intends to utilize Allen, typically an opener in T20 formats, in the middle order to better tackle spinners and part-time bowlers during the middle overs.

Walter expressed the desire to see how Allen can influence the game between the 25th and 40th overs, particularly under favorable batting conditions. New Zealand's schedule includes five T20Is and five ODIs against India, followed by a two-match Test series, allowing the team to experiment with various combinations.

In addition to Allen's potential new role, Walter mentioned the careful management of fast bowlers due to an upcoming busy schedule. Will O'Rourke is recovering from a lower-back injury, while Ben Sears is on the mend from ankle surgery. Lockie Ferguson will participate only in the last two ODIs against India as part of a workload management strategy.