Black Caps batting order still a jigsaw for Wright

Wellington, Mar 20(ANI): The composition of the New Zealand batting card is still doubtful despite early indications that Daniel Flynn would play as an opener in the Wellington Test against South Africa.

Kiwi selection manager Kim Littlejohn said it was likely the recalled Flynn would open the batting instead of Rob Nicol, stuff.co.nz reports.

Coach John Wright indicated that there were several options being considered with Flynn as an opener being one of them.

"I've got to sit down and talk with Ross (Taylor) and come up with the best combination for the team," Wright was quoted as saying.

Flynn could also bat at No 5 or No 6, where he has scored most of his runs, with McCullum to open and Kane Williamson promoted from No 5 to No 3.

The regular middle order batsman, who has smashed two tons in the Plunket Shield in the past five weeks, could be asked to bat at No 3, which would push Brendon McCullum up a spot to open with Martin Guptill.

Wright also confirmed they would play six specialist batsmen and admitted "we do have a long tail".

"Dan Vettori has done a reasonable job at No 6 but we need to bat a little lower, particularly against such a quality bowling attack," he added.

Wright said they would play "four best bowlers" for the conditions at the Basin Reserve, and admitted that New Zealand did not play "clever" cricket in Hamilton. (ANI)