New Zealand Strengthens Coaching Team with Herath and Rathour

New Zealand has enhanced their coaching staff by recruiting former Sri Lanka spinner Rangana Herath and India's ex-batting coach Vikram Rathour. They join ahead of three upcoming test matches in Asia, including a one-off test against Afghanistan and a two-test series in Sri Lanka, with further tests in India thereafter.

New Zealand has bolstered its coaching lineup by adding former Sri Lanka spinner Rangana Herath and India's ex-batting coach Vikram Rathour. The announcement comes ahead of three crucial test matches in Asia.

The team faces Afghanistan in a one-off test in Greater Noida near Delhi on Monday before heading to Sri Lanka for a two-test series in Galle. Herath's inclusion follows the departure of spin-bowling coach Saqlain Mushtaq, who has taken on a mentor role in Pakistan's new domestic competitions.

Gary Stead, New Zealand's head coach, expressed enthusiasm, highlighting the immense value both Herath and Rathour bring to the team. Stead especially noted the benefits for New Zealand's left-arm spinners Ajaz Patel, Mitchell Santner, and Rachin Ravindra, given Herath's expertise and experience in sub-continental conditions. Following the series in Sri Lanka, New Zealand will return to India to compete in a three-test series against Rohit Sharma's squad.

(With inputs from agencies.)