The 28-year-old was a surprise selection when the Black Caps test squad was named earlier this month.
The right hander earned his opportunity after a couple of fruitful first-class seasons for Otago in the top order. And, if all goes to plan, Redmond will likely make his test debut at Lord's - the spiritual home of cricket - in May.
It is a thought that brings a broad smile to his face.
‘‘I can't think of a better place to make a debut,'' he said.
But, as for coming up with a batting plan to combat Sidebottom and the rest of the English attack, Redmond has not come up with anything specific.
It is not that he does not have a plan as such - there are areas of his game he is working on - it is just that he prefers not to suddenly complicate his approach and would rather back the skills which have earned him the opportunity.
‘‘Test cricket is test cricket. You know it is going to be hard. That's why it's called test cricket,'' he said.
‘‘I think the big thing is you've got to back yourself. I've been playing for a while now and I'm quite confident with the way I play.
‘‘I know they are going to come at me hard. I'm looking forward to it. It will be a good challenge.''
After Otago wrapped up its first-class season, Redmond visited his family in Perth. He was at his family's home when national selector Sir Richard Hadlee phoned and delivered the news of his selection.
He shared a bottle of red wine with his father, Rodney Redmond, who played his one and only test for New Zealand against Pakistan at Eden Park in Auckland 35 years ago.
The best piece of advice the younger Redmond has received has been from his Perth-based coach, former South African international Peter Carlstein, who told him not to expect miracles, keep it simple and be gutsy.
‘‘I think the best thing I can do is keep it simple and just stay confident in my ability.''
Redmond had a net session in Perth and ‘‘ironed out a few things'' before returning to Dunedin earlier this week, where he plans to work closely with Otago coach Mike Hesson and fine-tune his technique.
Otago bowlers James McMillan and Craig Smith are being called in to help with Redmond's preparation.
The Black Caps assemble in Auckland on April 22.
