For Black Caps

just 16.30 in 10 innings against the world’s top-ranked side. He went past 23 just the once on his way to 45. That form contrasted with his Chappell-Hadlee Trophy ODI record where he averaged 60.

Mike Hesson’s selection approach is to persevere with players through form blips. Previous openers Peter Fulton and Hamish Rutherford received more than 10 redemption opportunities once their form slumped. Expect Guptill, and perhaps Latham, to receive the same. They are likely to remain for the African tour, barring injury.

Raval will simultaneously be groomed and could debut in India, the land of his birth, in October.

As much as developing an alternative opening strategy, the policy highlights Hesson and fellow selector Gavin Larsen’s confidence in Henry Nicholls.

Henry Nicholls set to be Brendon McCullum’s replacement at No 5.

Nicholls eked out 59 on debut against Australia last summer at No 4 in Ross Taylor’s absence, but struggled in his other three test innings. He demonstrated application in nine ODI innings, including a man-of-the-match 82 against Pakistan and 61 in a win over Australia. Expect him to receive more chances before his place is reassessed.

If Nicholls is ruled out for any reason, Luke Ronchi is the middleorder cover.

Ronchi scored 88 and 31 on debut as a wicketkeeper-batsman against England in last year’s test win at Headingley, and will be raring for another chance.

The team depart for an eight-day camp in Johannesburg on July 11. The opening test against Zimbabwe starts July 29 in Harare.