Milne's T20 baptism risks quick exit

T20 is a baptism of fire for a young cricketer and because of its importance to the modern cricketer, it is certainly not "a bit of fun" any longer. If the Black Caps decide to persevere with Milne in this form and the lad comes through, I will be thrilled. But unless the kid can find the confidence and pace to blast players out with yorkers and bouncers, this experiment could ruin him. At the very least, it could make him defensive-minded.

The New Zealand team could benefit from having a regular - if not permanent - spin bowling coach. It can be argued this might further clutter the support staff, adding another voice to a cacophony when money could be better invested. However, New Zealand are vulnerable when facing most opposition when they rip their fingers or wrists over the ball. And they must also developing a spinning successor to Daniel Vettori. A specific spin coach might help Vettori extend his test career by finding more turn, particularly in the second innings.