New Zealand selection convener Sir Richard Hadlee again offered the broadest hint of a change or two in the Black Caps side to contest the first three One-Day Internationals against Zimbabwe, starting in Taupo on January 2.

Out of consideration by his own request is left-arm fast-medium bowler Geoff Allott.

Top of the pops for the "bolter" positions are, Wellington all-rounder James Franklin, Auckland all-rounder Tama Canning and possibly Northern Districts batsman James Marshall.

Significantly, all three were on New Zealand development tours this year. Marshall and Canning were in England and Franklin was in India where he made a significant impression on Hadlee.

Marshall, an opener in Trophy cricket, bats down the order for Northern Districts could only come into the side at the expense of Chris Nevin which would seem to go against the investment that has already been made in him.

Franklin and Canning appeal as the more likely candidates.

Franklin was not wanted by Wellington despite being released from 12th man duties with the New Zealand team in order to get Shell Cup play. Clearly Wellington has undergone a change in policy about getting players as many opportunities as possible in order to play for New Zealand.

Some years ago when Wellington was lacking representation in any national teams a stated policy of giving players every opportunity so that their experiences could be brought back to Wellington and utilised to local advantage.

As a result Canning, who performed outstandingly for Auckland with the bat to beat Otago in their Shell Cup match today, may have done enough to impress the selectors and be given a chance to try and establish a role for himself in the lead-up to the 2003 campaign.

Hadlee has made no secret of the fact that New Zealand should be looking at building a one day side in preparation for the 2003 World Cup.

Scott Styris is likely to be part of that side, especially after the role he had in New Zealand's ICC KnockOut success, but the question mark is over him as he attempts to regain full fitness. He may be excluded at the moment with a view to being considered for the Sri Lankan series.

Clearly, Andrew Penn was regarded as a potential Test bowler when sent to South Africa as a replacement for injured players before being injured himself. But his seven wicket haul for Wellington against Northern Districts must also see him become a consideration.

A possible team, to be named at the completion of the Test tomorrow, could be:

Stephen Fleming (captain), Nathan Astle, Chris Nevin, Roger Twose, Chris Cairns, Craig McMillan, Chris Harris, Adam Parore, James Franklin, Tama Canning, Shayne O'Connor, Paul Wiseman.

© CricInfo