Finn Allen’s BBL Finals Duty May Delay Start of New Zealand’s India T20Is

Finn Allen’s availability for the series starting January 21 depended on Perth Scorchers’ progress in the BBL finals.

New Zealand opener Finn Allen could miss the start of the T20I series in India due to his Big Bash League commitments. The five-match series begins on January 21 in Nagpur.

Allen’s availability hinges on his BBL team, Perth Scorchers. If they reach the final on January 25, he may only be available for the fourth T20I on January 28. Should the Scorchers not qualify, he would be free for the entire series.

The tour is important preparation for the T20 World Cup. New Zealand will also play three ODIs in India from January 11 to 17.

Finn Allen’s Commitment to New Zealand Cricket

“Pending selection, I’ll head straight to India once the Big Bash finishes up for us [Scorchers],” Allen told ESPNcricinfo.

He reaffirmed his priority to play for his country. “Playing for New Zealand is still, for me, the pinnacle and the reason why I love playing is to represent my country. But cricket’s obviously evolving and changing year on year. New Zealand Cricket’s been really good to work with over the last wee while. [I’m] confident about getting back into some Black Caps stuff after the Big Bash and hopefully can continue that,” Allen said.

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Allen is returning from a foot stress fracture sustained in July. He last played internationally in March. He is one of five New Zealand players on casual contracts, allowing flexibility for franchise cricket.