Adam Milne of New Zealand has been cast as "the new Bond". Photo / Getty Images
Adam Milne is optimistic he can sustain his 150km/h pace once his abdominal strain repairs.
Milne said specialist advice suggested the injury should repair in six weeks which would have him fit for the World T20 in Bangladesh. The 21-year-old has also put his name forward for the Indian Premier
League auction on February 12.
Helping his spirits is a glowing feeling of inclusiveness. Captain Brendon McCullum and coach Mike Hesson have assured Milne he belongs at international level.
"They've been pleased with how I've gone, showing them what I can do if I get a bit of rhythm. When I debuted a few years ago [in a T20I v Pakistan in December 2010] I was a bit wayward. Once I worked more on my accuracy I started nicking people out. It feels great to have got people excited [with pace] over a pretty big couple of weeks. Apparently this sort of injury happens to a lot of bowlers. It's not major structural damage so it won't stop me bowling fast."
Milne paid tribute to bowling coach Shane Bond as someone he admired growing up and who mentored him at Central Districts. "I've worked with Shane since I was 17 and have appreciated his guidance as someone who played at the top level. He's been a massive help."
