Accuracy and execution are two of the main focus points for New Zealand A coach Heinrich Malan as he takes the reigns from Shane Bond for the final two four-day matches of the NZ A tour to the UAE, game one starting Tuesday 6pm (NZT).
“The four day stuff is going to be challenging, we need to be really accurate and smart in the way we approach it. It's important to execute our skills for long periods of time in tough conditions,” Malan said.
“It’s been a challenging tour so far from a conditions point of view. A big part of that is getting these boys upskilled and exposed to these conditions so they can formulate plans and learn.”
Malan has been impressed by what he has seen so far in the shorter formats but knows the side will be tested in red ball cricket.
“Lockie Ferguson bowled really well in the first game and exploited the top order which gave us some insight while Todd Astle has been consistent with the bat and ball.
“It’s important to be calm, there’s always highs and lows in a four day match but we must be consistent in our preparation and get the boys excited to be out there in the heat and embrace the challenge."
New Zealand A start their four-day first-class match against Pakistan A, 30 October, 6pm (NZT) at the ICC Academy, Dubai.
