Vikram Rathour joins New Zealand for one-off Test against Afghanistan, Rangana Herath appointed as spin bowling coach

Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour has joined New Zealand for the one-off Test against Afghanistan, slated to begin on September 9. He was part of the Indian team alongside Rahul Dravid and recently was part of the group that won the T20 World Cup in West Indies. After the tournament, his contract with the BCCI ended and Rathour decided not to apply again.

Meanwhile, former Sri Lanka cricketer Rangana Herath has been appointed as the spin-bowling coach for New Zealand’s entire sub-continent leg, which includes three Tests against India and two against Sri Lanka. The position was first offered to Saqlain Mushtaq but the former Pakistan cricketer took up a position at PCB and for which, he turned down NZC’s offer. Meanwhile, Herath is very familiar with the Indian conditions as he has played five Test matches in the country.

Head coach Gary Stead welcomed both Rathour and Herath and added that they would bring new knowledge to the group and insights that only locals would know.

“We’re really excited to introduce Rangana and Vikram into our Test group. Both men are held in high regard in the world of cricket and I know our players are really looking forward to the opportunity to learn from them,” said Stead in a statement released by NZC.

“For our three left-arm orthodox spinners in particular, Ajaz, Mitch and Rachin, having the chance to work with Rangana across three Tests on the sub-continent will be hugely beneficial. 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,” he added.

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New Zealand will clash with Afghanistan in sole Test starting on September 9

Meanwhile, the Tim Southee-led New Zealand reached India on September 5. Kane Williamson and Devon Conway, who recently opted out of the central contract are part of the tour. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s marquee series against India will begin on October 16.