NZ vs. IND ODIs: Opener Allen will take flight in middle-order for first time

New Zealand’s Finn Allen is preparing for a test he has never taken before in his international career. Allen, who has opened the batting in each of his 21 ODI innings thus far, will drop down to the middle-order as an experiment in the run-up to the 2027 World Cup.

An already stern examination could get tougher when he takes strike in the fourth and fifth game against India: the 27-year-old will experience the demands of 50-over cricket in a New Zealand shirt for the first time since 2023.

“It (batting in the middle-order) is a role I have not explored for a long time, so I am excited for the challenge. I have to learn that on the fly. It will be an opportunity to add another string to my bow,” Allen said during a virtual interaction.

“I feel that my game is in a good place technically. I need to keep my method and tempo under control, but having the same intent and (aggressive) approach is really important for me. I must feel that I am at a place where I can push or change the game… trying to have impact against spin or in the latter half of an innings.”

Allen felt that having a “goldfish memory” would serve him well, especially in a series where he could be under intense scrutiny. “I should go into each game feeling refreshed,” he added.

Triple threat

The attack-minded batter acknowledged the threat which the India top three of Rohit Sharma, skipper Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli carries. “They have posed a lot of challenges. They have their methods figured out pretty well. All three of them have the ability to flick a switch and go on the sixth gear when they need to,” Allen said.

But, can the ‘Flying Finn’ soar higher than them?

(Watch New Zealand vs. India 1st ODI live and exclusive on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV on Wednesday from 7 a.m. IST).