Finn Allen to move from opener to middle order in New Zealand-India ODI series

On November 03, 2026 New Zealand batter Finn Allen will drop from the opening slot to the middle order in the ongoing New Zealand-India ODI series, taking that role in the fourth and fifth ODIs as part of a trial. The change is being used as an experiment in the run-up to the 2027 World Cup.

Allen has opened the batting in each of his 21 ODI innings to date and is 27 years old. The 27-year-old will experience the demands of 50-over cricket in a New Zealand shirt for the first time since 2023, according to the report.

“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,” he added.

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, and acknowledged the challenge posed by India’s top three, naming Rohit Sharma, skipper Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli: “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.”

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

The immediate plan is to trial Allen in the middle order across the fourth and fifth ODIs as part of the preparation for the 2027 World Cup; those selections will determine how the experiment proceeds.