Finn Allen is ready to embrace a new challenge as New Zealand look to explore his potential in the middle-order ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. The explosive opener, who last played an ODI for the Black Caps in Bangladesh in 2023, has been added to the squad for the fourth and fifth matches of the ODI series against India.With New Zealand exploring options to strengthen their middle-order, Allen could be asked to take on opposition spinners and target the fifth or sixth bowler, adding another dimension to his aggressive batting.“It’s an exciting opportunity to try something different. It’s a role I haven’t explored much before, and I’m looking forward to the challenge. The idea is to have an impact against spin through the middle overs and, hopefully, be set to accelerate towards the end of the innings,” Allen said.He said the key would be to adjust his tempo to the demands of ODI cricket while retaining his attacking intent. With only two fielders allowed outside the circle during the powerplay, compared to four after it, he believes the changing field restrictions offer different opportunities to score and rotate strike.The 27-year-old, who has scored 582 runs in 22 ODIs at an average of 27.71, including five half-centuries, believes adapting his tempo rather than abandoning his natural attacking instincts will be crucial in the 50-over format.“Having the same intent and approach is important for me. It’s about choosing lower-risk options at times, hitting fours along the ground instead of going for sixes, and being diligent with running between the wickets. I want to rotate strike comfortably in the middle order, while still putting pressure on the bowlers,” he said.Allen acknowledged that batting in the middle-order would require him to assess match situations quickly, whether New Zealand are rebuilding after early wickets or looking to accelerate from a strong position.“When the team is struggling, you need to absorb pressure but also find ways to put it back on the opposition. If the team is doing well, you have to do the same, but in a slightly different way. It’s about reading the situation quickly,” he said.Having missed out on New Zealand’s plans during the 2023 ODI World Cup, Allen believes his experience across leagues and domestic cricket has helped him understand his game better. Appearances in one-day cricket for Auckland have also allowed him to work on adapting his approach.“Technically, I feel my game is in a good place. Having played more cricket, I can control my innings better and adapt to different conditions,” he said.With Kane Williamson’s retirement opening up opportunities in New Zealand’s top order, Allen said, “Thankfully, I don’t have to try and replace Kane. It’s pretty tough to live up to.”(Tune-In: Watch New Zealand vs India 1st ODI live and exclusive on Sony Sports Network Sony LIV on Nov 4, 2026)