Injured Zadran to miss NZ Test

Young Afghanistan bowler suffering from a side strain

WELLINGTON:

Afghanistan bowler Naveed Zadran will miss next week's Test match against New Zealand with a side strain injury, the Afghan cricket board said on Friday.

The 19-year-old, who has taken nine wickets in his two tests, has been told to rest for three to four weeks in the hope of recovering before this month's One-Day International series against South Africa, the board posted on X.

Allrounder Rashid Khan has also been ruled out with a back injury. Afghanistan, who play their home matches outside the country, will host New Zealand in a one-off test in India from Monday, before playing three one-day internationals against South Africa in the United Arab Emirates starting Sept. 18. Reuters

NZ add Herath, Rathour to coaching staff for Asia Tests

New Zealand added former Sri Lanka spinner Rangana Herath and India's ex-batting coach Vikram Rathour to their coaching staff on Friday for their upcoming three test matches in Asia.

New Zealand play a one-off test match against Afghanistan in Greater Noida, near Delhi, from Monday before flying to Sri Lanka for a two-test series in Galle. Herath was roped as spin-bowling coach Saqlain Mushtaq left to take over a mentor's role in new domestic competitions introduced by the Pakistan Cricket Board this season.

"We're really excited to introduce Rangana and Vikram into our Test group," New Zealand coach Gary Stead 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."