Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour is set to join New Zealand as support staff for the one-off Test series against Afghanistan in Noida, slated to get underway from Monday.
Rathour has been onboarded by the Blackcaps for some Indian knowledge while Sri Lanka great Rangana Herath will join as the spin-bowling coach for the three upcoming Tests in Asia, replacing former Pakistan spinner and coach Saqlain Mushtaq.
Following the one-off Test against Afghanistan, the Black Caps will tour Sri Lanka for a two-match series in the longest format.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead has placed both Rathour and Herath in high regard as he hopes that the team learns from their diverse knowledge and skills.
“We’re really excited to introduce Rangana and Vikram into our Test group,” he said.
“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.
“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.”
Rathour played six Tests for India in the late 90s before becoming a selector of the national side in 2012 and most recently led the formidable Indian batting unit under head coach Rahul Dravid.
