Jesse Ryder is in 'serious consideration' for New Zealand 'A' team tour, says coach Mike Hesson

New Zealand coach Mike Hesson has declared that Jesse Ryder is available and is in serious consideration for next month's A team tour.

Hesson hinted at a softening in attitude towards Ryder, following Sunday's abandoned third ODI against South Africa in Hamilton, which saw the tourists depart with a 2-0 series win.

The New Zealand A squad, for a limited over series in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), would be named on Friday, as test batsman Hamish Rutherford's fractured little finger is being assessed, Stuff.co.nz reported.

If Rutherford is ruled out, Dean Brownlie could be elevated from the New Zealand A squad, while the chances of Ryder playing appear more likely by the day.

Hesson said that himself, Brendon McCullum and team manager Mike Sandle have been in regular communication with Ryder, over the last few days, and added that it is crucial for the batsman to make the most of this opportunity.

He also confirmed that if Ryder was available for the A side, he would definitely get a chance to play against the Associate Nations.

Ryder declined an invitation to play in Friday's Island of Origin Twenty20, because he felt he wasn't 'physically ready' for a heavy playing workload.

While his inclusion in New Zealand's World Cup squad, to be named on January 8, remains a long shot, still his availability in the A team would give the team hierarchy an idea of his on field commitment, the report added.