Former India batting coach joins New Zealand for one-off Test against Afghanistan

Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour has been roped in by New Zealand for their one-off Test match against Afghanistan. The two teams are set to battle it out for the first time in the longer format of the game from September 9 to 13 at the Greater Noida Sports Complex.  

Rathour was part of the coaching staff led by Rahul Dravid, who guided Team India to a historic victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup in June. The 55-year-old played six Tests for India in the late 90s before becoming the national team selector in 2012.

New Zealand Cricket has also appointed former Sri Lanka spinner Rangana Herath as the spin-bowling coach for the upcoming series against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. The Black Caps will travel to the island nation for two Test matches starting on September 18. Herath has replaced Pakistan's great Saqlain Mushtaq in the interim role.

Also Read: New Zealand and Sri Lanka set to play six-day Test Match with ‘Rest Day’ making its comeback

Head coach Gary Stead heaps massive praise on Herath and Rathour 

Commenting on the latest development, New Zealand head coach Gary Stead praised Herath and Rathour. The former Kiwi batter noted that some of his players could benefit greatly from both in understanding Asian conditions.

“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.

"For our three left-arm orthodox spinners in particular, Ajaz (Patel), Mitchell (Santner) and Rachin (Ravindra) having the chance to work with Rangana across three Tests on the sub-continent will be hugely beneficial,” he added.

Also Read: Former cricketer Jacob Oram joins New Zealand coaching staff as bowling coach

Led by veteran pacer Tim Southee, New Zealand announced a strong squad with an equal presence of senior players and youngsters. They will have a tough job against Afghanistan's formidable spin attack.

NZ squad for one-off Test against AFG: 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.