New Zealand white-ball captain Kane Williamson is unlikely to play at the ODI World Cup later this year but the injured batter could still travel to India for the marquee event as a team mentor.
Head coach Gary Stead said he would "absolutely" look to use the experienced batter and limited-overs skipper in a mentor-type role.
"Our line around Kane, at the moment, is still it's unlikely that he will be available, but we certainly don't want to rule out a person of his class and calibre, and the things he brings to this team, too early in case there is that chance still, " Stead said.
Williamson is currently in rehab after undergoing a successful surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament of his right knee.
The 32-year-old had suffered the injury while fielding in his debut game for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League last month.