In a major turn of events, former India batting coach Vikram Rathour joined New Zealand’s coaching team for their one-off Test match against Afghanistan. This game begins on Monday at the Greater Noida Sports Complex.
Rathour played six Tests for India in the late 90s before becoming a national selector in 2012. Recently, he led India’s strong batting lineup under head coach Rahul Dravid and played a key role in helping India win the 2024 T20 World Cup along with Rahul Dravid.
Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) appointed R Sridhar as the assistant coach for their upcoming series against New Zealand and South Africa. Sridhar previously served as India’s fielding coach from 2014 to 2021.
New Zealand has brought in former Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath as their spin-bowling coach for the upcoming three-Test series in Asia. He replaces ex-Pakistani spinner and coach Saqlain Mushtaq, who was initially named for the role but withdrew to join the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Herath will join New Zealand’s coaching staff for the three upcoming Test matches which include two games scheduled in his home country, Sri Lanka, later this month.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead mentioned that both Herath and Rathore will provide fresh expertise to the team, along with a valuable understanding of the local playing conditions.
“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.”
