The BLACKCAPS have called on some local Indian knowledge as well as a Sri Lankan great with 433 Test wickets, as they prepare for Monday’s one-off Test against Afghanistan in Noida, near Delhi.
Sri Lankan spin maestro Rangana Herath has been appointed as spin-bowling coach for the three upcoming Tests in Asia, replacing former Pakistan spinner and coach Saqlain Mushtaq who was originally announced to fill the temporary role before pulling out to take up a position with the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Herath, the most prolific left-arm orthodox Test spinner of all time, will stay on with the side through to the two ICC World Test Championship matches in his homeland of Sri Lanka later this month.
Former Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour has joined the BLACKCAPS for the one-off Test in Noida.
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.
BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said Herath and Rathore would not only bring new knowledge to the group but also insights into the local 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.
“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.”
The one-off Test against Afghanistan starts in Noida on Monday and will be live in New Zealand on Sky Sport.
