Vikram Rathour joins New Zealand team for Afghanistan Test

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.

Vikram 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.

Head coach of New Zealand Gary Stead stated, “We’re really excited to introduce Rangana and Vikram into our Test group.” “I am aware that our players are eager to get the chance to learn from these two highly esteemed figures in the cricket industry.

“Having three Test matches in the sub-continent to work with Rangana will be quite helpful for our three left-arm orthodox spinners, Ajaz, Mitch, and Rachin,” Stead stated. Rangana has gathered over 100 Test wickets at Galle, the venue of our two Test matches against Sri Lanka. So his knowledge with the area will be helpful.

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.

Jacob Oram takes over as New Zealand’s bowling coach

Jacob Oram, a former New Zealand allrounder has been appointed bowling coach for the men’s cricket squad. He filled the post left vacant by Shane Jurgensen in November 2023. Oram will formally take over on October 7.

Oram has been handed the position permanently. After assisting the squad in the 1-1 series draw during the Test tour of Bangladesh in late 2023. The 3-0 T20I series defeat against Australia in February 2024. The Men’s T20 World Cup earlier this June. Where New Zealand was eliminated in the group stages. The 46-year-old began his coaching career in 2014. He was appointed bowling coach for New Zealand A. He takes over in the same capacity for the New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team from 2018 until the Women’s ODI World Cup. Which will be contested at home in March 2022.

Jacob Oram

Oram has also coached in several franchises and tournaments. He previously served as head coach of the Central Hinds in the Super Smash, assistant coach of the Northern Warriors in the T10 competition, and bowling coach of MI Cape Town in the SA20. Having represented New Zealand in 33 Tests, 160 ODIs, and 36 T20Is over his 11-year playing career, Oram intends to pass on his knowledge to the next generation of bowlers rising through the ranks to prepare them for the international stage.

I’m very happy to be engaged with the Black Caps again, he informed me. “It’s an honor to be back with a team that means so much to me and has played such an important role in my life. The recent opportunities I’ve had have provided me with valuable insight into where this team is going. I’m looking forward to continuing that work in the coming seasons.

There is a new wave of talent emerging in the Black Caps bowling ranks. I intend to share my knowledge and experience to better prepare them for the difficulties of international cricket.

Gary Stead, New Zealand’s head coach was also pleased to have Oram join his staff. He believes that the all-rounder’s franchise coaching expertise, as well as his own excellent career, will bring out the best in the players.

“Jake is an excellent operator,” Stead remarked. “His playing career and coaching experiences speak for themselves.” He has a thorough understanding of the international game, as well as experience in franchise cricket, which will be useful in understanding the modern player and the evolving landscape of the game. It’s a fantastic opportunity for him, and we look forward to having him join the group full-time.

Sophie Devine and the Perth Scorchers extend their contract

Sophie Devine has agreed to a two-year contract extension with the Perth Scorchers, meaning she will play in the WBBL in the orange and black uniform.

The prominent all-rounder from New Zealand. Who the Scorchers retained in the inaugural overseas player draft held the year before. Demonstrated her value by claiming 14 wickets and collecting 489 runs to be named to the WBBL Team of the Tournament.

Devine, one of the best all-rounders in the game of cricket. Is two wickets short of reaching 100 in this match. She called it a “no brainer” and was thrilled to have committed to the Scorchers for two more years. She called the side to the 2021–22 title—a unique memory. It was their first title.

“I’m absolutely stoked to be returning to the Scorchers,” Devine stated. “Over the past four seasons, I have developed such a unique bond with the players and staff, and I couldn’t fathom playing anyplace else.

The entire team is really driven to win the WBBL|07 title. I will always hold a particular place in my heart for performing it in front of Optus Stadium’s supporters. The addition of Mikayla Hinkley, a free agent from the Brisbane Heat, has further strengthened the Scorchers. Alana King has signed a three-year contract extension with the team.

The current Perth Scorchers roster includes:

Mikayla Hinkley, Alana King, Lilly Mills, Chloe Ainsworth, Stella Campbell, Piepa Cleary, Maddy Darke, and Sophie Devine (INT).