Ahead of the second T20I, New Zealand received a massive boost as Finn Allen cleared the COVID-19 tests to join the team’s bio-bubble. Allen is naturally very aggressive, which might not be easy to do on the rank turners of Bangladesh. However, the opener is not willing to change his approach and is keen to bat in his own aggressive way. Bangladesh humbled New Zealand in the first T20I, having bowled out the visitors for 60 before chasing the target with seven wickets to spare.
"Watching the game was pretty helpful," Allen said. "I saw how they go about things. How I want to do things. I want to use these few days to train and prepare. I don't think I will change my intent too much. I will continue to stick with it. I have been thinking about options. I think I have had pretty good preparations over the last few months for this tour. I have played in similar conditions in some places. I am looking forward to getting stuck in."
Allen comes into the series with some fine knocks behind him. Playing for Birmingham Phoenix in the Hundred, Allen scored four half-centuries in 13 games. The swashbuckling opener revealed he followed the 1st T20I from his room and said he has sorted out his game plan, how he wants to plan his innings.
Despite joining the squad, Allen is not certain to play and his inclusion will depend on his fitness before the match. Allen is keen to play in the second T20I but getting back to full fitness remains his priority.
"It is good to be in fresh air, and looking forward to the game today. I hope to do a run around and hopefully have a hit to get familiar with surroundings and conditions. I want to get the fitness back up again to push forward to play pretty soon," he said.