Vikram Rathour Joins New Zealand Coaching Staff

Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour has been appointed to New Zealand's support staff for their upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan in Noida. Additionally, New Zealand confirmed that former Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath will serve as their spin bowling coach, not only for the Afghanistan Test but also for the subsequent two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.

Rathour, who was part of India’s coaching setup under Rahul Dravid, had previously played six Test matches for India in the 1990s before transitioning to the role of a national selector. Herath, widely regarded as the most successful left-arm spinner in history, steps in to replace Saqlain Mushtaq. Mushtaq was originally slated for the role but withdrew to join the Pakistan Cricket Board in a coaching position.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed excitement over the additions, saying that both Rathour and Herath are well-respected figures in the cricketing world. Stead noted that New Zealand’s players are eager to benefit from their expertise.

Stead highlighted the significance of Herath’s experience, especially for New Zealand's trio of left-arm orthodox spinners: Ajaz Patel, Mitchell Santner, and Rachin Ravindra. He accentuated that Herath’s deep understanding of subcontinental conditions—particularly at Galle, where he took over 100 Test wickets—would be invaluable for the team as they prepare to face Sri Lanka.

New Zealand’s one-off Test against Afghanistan is set to begin on September 9, followed by the first Test against Sri Lanka starting on September 18 and the second from September 30. Both matches against Sri Lanka are part of the World Test Championship, where New Zealand currently holds the third spot in the rankings.