New Zealand Cricket has made a strategic move by enlisting the expertise of Vikram Rathour and Rangana Herath to bolster their preparations for the upcoming Test season in Asia. This decision underscores New Zealand’s commitment to excelling in the challenging subcontinental conditions, where spin and batting techniques against spin play a crucial role.
Vikram Rathour: Enhancing Batting Prowess
Vikram Rathour, a former Indian cricketer and batting coach, brings a wealth of experience to the New Zealand camp. Rathour, who played six Tests for India, has been instrumental in shaping the batting techniques of many Indian players during his tenure as the batting coach. His expertise will be particularly valuable for New Zealand’s batsmen as they prepare to face the spin-friendly pitches of Asia.
Rathour’s stint with New Zealand will be focused on the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Greater Noida, India, starting September 9. His insights into playing spin and adapting to subcontinental conditions will be crucial for New Zealand’s top order. Rathour’s approach emphasizes the importance of footwork, patience, and shot selection, which are essential skills for succeeding on turning tracks.
Rangana Herath: Mastering the Art of Spin
Rangana Herath, the legendary Sri Lankan spinner, has joined New Zealand as a spin-bowling coach for their Test series in Asia. Herath, who has taken over 400 Test wickets, is renowned for his mastery of left-arm orthodox spin. His knowledge and experience will be invaluable for New Zealand’s spinners, particularly Ajaz Patel, Mitchell Santner, and Rachin Ravindra.
Herath’s role will extend through the two-match series against Sri Lanka, beginning on September 18. His familiarity with the conditions in Sri Lanka, especially at venues like Galle where he has taken over 100 Test wickets, will provide New Zealand’s spinners with a significant advantage. Herath’s coaching will focus on variations, control, and the mental aspects of bowling in subcontinental conditions.
Strategic Importance of the Appointments
The inclusion of Rathour and Herath in the coaching staff highlights New Zealand’s proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by the subcontinent. New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed his excitement about the appointments, stating, “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.”
A warm welcome to Sri Lankan spin maestro Rangana Herath & former Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour. Herath has been appointed as spin-bowling coach for the three upcoming Tests in Asia, while Rathour joins for the first one-off Test against Afghanistan in Noida #AFGvNZ #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/DD5zoBl6Uz
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 6, 2024
Stead emphasized the importance of Herath’s experience for the team’s spinners, saying, “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 subcontinent will be hugely beneficial.”
Preparing for the Test Season
New Zealand’s Test season in Asia includes a one-off Test against Afghanistan, followed by two Tests against Sri Lanka and three Tests in India. The series against Afghanistan will serve as a crucial warm-up, allowing the team to acclimatize to the conditions before facing the more formidable challenges in Sri Lanka and India.
