The former India batting coach Vikram Rathour will be a member of the New Zealand support team when they play Afghanistan in a one-off Test in Noida. Additionally, New Zealand said that Rangana Herath will coach their spin bowling unit for both the next two-Test series against Sri Lanka and the Test match against Afghanistan.
Rathour was a member of the coaching team under Rahul Dravid, whose term came to an end with India winning the T20 World Cup. Prior to joining the national selectorate, he had participated in six Test matches for India throughout the 1990s. The most successful left-arm spinner, Herath, has taken over for Saqlain Mushtaq, who was set to assume the role of temporary spin coach but withdrew to accept a job with the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Gary Stead, the head coach of New Zealand, stated, “We’re really excited to introduce Rangana and Vikram into our Test group.” “In the cricket world, both men are highly esteemed, and I know our players are eager to have the chance to learn from them.
“For our three left-arm orthodox spinners in particular, Ajaz, Mitch and Rachin, having the chance to work with Rangana across three Tests in the sub-continent will be hugely beneficial,” added Stead. “Rangana has taken over 100 Test wickets in Galle which is the venue of our two Tests against Sri Lanka and so his knowledge of that venue will be priceless.”On September 9, New Zealand will play its one-off Test match against Afghanistan. September 18 marks the start of the first Test matchup with Sri Lanka, while September 30 marks the start of the second matchup. New Zealand is currently placed third in the World Test Championship, which includes both Tests.
