Ex-India batting coach Vikram Rathour joins New Zealand ahead of Test season

New Delhi: New Zealand Cricket has bolstered its coaching staff with the addition of former India batting coach Vikram Rathour and legendary Sri Lanka spinner Rangana Herath, ahead of their upcoming Test fixtures.

Rathour, a key assistant to Rahul Dravid during his tenure as India’s head coach, will provide valuable insights as New Zealand prepares for a one-off Test against Afghanistan in Noida and a two-match ICC World Test Championship series against Sri Lanka.

Rathour, who played six Tests for India, is expected to bring his extensive experience in coaching and player development to the Kiwi camp, particularly aiding the batsmen as they gear up to face spin-friendly conditions. His knowledge of Asian teams and subcontinental pitches is seen as a crucial advantage for New Zealand as they navigate a challenging schedule.

“We’re really excited to introduce Rangana and Vikram into our Test group,” New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said. “Both men are held in high regard in the world of cricket, and our players are really looking forward to the opportunity to learn from them.”

Joining Rathour is Rangana Herath, one of the most successful left-arm spinners in Test history with 433 wickets. Herath will serve as New Zealand's bowling coach for the upcoming matches, replacing former Pakistan bowler Saqlain Mushtaq, who recently took up a role with the Pakistan Cricket Board. Known for his strategic acumen and vast experience in subcontinental conditions, Herath's appointment is a major boost for New Zealand’s spin attack, especially with key matches in venues like Galle, where Herath has taken over 100 Test wickets.

Stead highlighted the specific impact Herath could have on the team’s left-arm spinners, Ajaz Patel, Mitch Santner, and Rachin Ravindra. “Rangana’s knowledge of the conditions in Galle will be priceless for our bowlers, particularly across the two Tests against Sri Lanka,” Stead added.

Herath's addition also revives memories of his past performances against New Zealand, including his memorable 5/3 spell in the 2014 T20 World Cup, where he ran through the Kiwi batting lineup.

The one-off Test against Afghanistan will commence on September 9 in Noida, followed by the first Test against Sri Lanka on September 18 in Galle. The series will be crucial for New Zealand’s ICC World Test Championship campaign for the 2023-25 cycle.

New Zealand Test Squad

Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (vc), Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Kane Williamson, Will Young.

Test Schedule

Only Test vs Afghanistan, Noida, September 9-13

First Test vs Sri Lanka, Galle, September 18-22

Second Test vs Sri Lanka, Galle, September 26-30