Anticipation is building for the possible international debut of young Blackcaps hopeful, leg-spinner Adithya Ashok.
At just 20 years old, Ashok is in line to turn out for his first international as early as Friday morning (NZ time), when the Blackcaps begin their three-match Twenty20 International series against the UAE.
Despite his age, Ashok has already shown he can mix it with the best New Zealand has to offer.
In 19 Super Smash appearances for Auckland, the young spinner has taken 21 wickets at an average of just under 22, conceding 7.08 runs per over in the process.
While those numbers might not scream 'world class', Ashok's promise and control of the ball at such a young age have seen it as a case of when and not if he steps up to international level.
As far as frontline spin options go in the UAE, Ish Sodhi's absence could open the door for Ashok alongside Mitchell Santner as a specialist, while the likes of Rachin Ravindra, Cole McConchie and Dean Foxcroft can also do a job as all-rounders.
But for Blackcaps batter Mark Chapman - who shares a dressing room with Ashok at domestic level with Auckland - the youngster's rapid ascension comes as no surprise.
"Adi's an exciting talent," said Chapman. "He's been earmarked as someone that can push for higher honours in years to come.
"He's deserving of his spot, he's got an exciting skillset as a leg-spinner. We know - particularly in white ball cricket - leg-spinners are invaluable, being able to move the ball both ways.
"I'm excited to see what he can do."
Elsewhere, the possibility of Foxcroft's debut also can't come soon enough for the Blackcaps.
After sitting out a wait to become eligible for New Zealand after moving from South Africa, a spin bowling all-rounder is exactly what the Blackcaps need with Michael Bracewell unavailable for this year's World Cup.
With only a handful of white ball matches to press for selection for this year's Cricket World Cup in India, time is against Foxcroft.
But the chance to play in the UAE is better than nothing.
And having played against the Otago star, Chapman knows exactly what he'll bring to the Blackcaps set-up.
"Dean's been a really strong performer in domestic cricket," Chapman continued. "He brings both skills - bat and ball - and he's a good fielder too.
"I'm excited to see what he has to offer as well."
