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.
