Wed Sep 18 04:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Black Caps Turn to Legendary Spinner Herath for Crucial Asian Tour
**Galle, Sri Lanka:** The New Zealand Black Caps are relying on the expertise of Sri Lankan spin legend Rangana Herath to guide them through a crucial tour of Asia, where they are seeking a place in the next World Test Championship final.
Herath, who retired from international cricket in 2018, has been brought in as a consultant to work with the Black Caps’ spin bowlers, particularly in the unfamiliar conditions where spin will be dominant.
The Black Caps have selected five spinners for the tour, including specialists Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, as well as all-rounders Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Michael Bracewell. Herath believes the team has the potential to excel in these challenging conditions.
“In terms of the spin bowling unit, what I’ve seen from them, they’re very experienced guys,” Herath said. “Especially Ajaz, Mitchell Santner, Bracewell and GP (Phillips). From what I’ve seen from them, they have understanding of their roles and what needs to be done on these kinds of surfaces.”
The Black Caps’ first test against Sri Lanka began on Wednesday at the Galle International Stadium, a venue where they have yet to secure a win. However, Herath, who took over 100 wickets at Galle during his playing days, is confident they can turn the tide.
This tour is crucial for the Black Caps’ World Test Championship aspirations. Currently third on the table, they need to perform well in Asia to secure a place in the final. Their upcoming series against India, who are currently in the top spot, will be particularly important.
“We’re obviously in a really strong position,” said Phillips. “Coming over to Sri Lanka is going to be a really tough place to win. But for us, we’ve got the skill set and the boys to be able to do it.”
The Black Caps will continue their tour with a series against India before returning to New Zealand for three tests against England in November.
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