Tim relies on Herath insights for Test against SL

New Zealand Test captain Tim Southee is relying heavily on spin-bowling coach Rangana Herath's insights as they prepare for the 2-match Test series against Sri Lanka. Herath, Sri Lanka’s second-highest wicket-taker behind Muttiah Muralitharan, brings invaluable experience, especially for the first Test in Galle starting September 18, where New Zealand aims to secure their first away Test win since 2019.

Southee emphasised that Herath has been working closely with the New Zealand spinners, including Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, and Ajaz Patel, ahead of the challenging series. Known for his dominance in Galle, where he holds the second-most Test wickets after Muralitharan, Herath's knowledge will be crucial in navigating the spin-friendly conditions. New Zealand’s preparation follows their recent Test match cancellation against Afghanistan in Greater Noida earlier in September.

"We’ve had a break from Test cricket since our home summer, and now we’ve got a crucial phase in the Test Championship cycle," Southee told ESPNcricinfo. "With eight games between now and December, it’s an exciting time for us, but also a tough challenge ahead, especially here in Sri Lanka, followed by India and then England at home."

Although disappointed about not facing Afghanistan in their first-ever Test match, Southee found positives in the downtime, which allowed the team to train and bond ahead of a hectic schedule.

Speaking on New Zealand’s spin attack, Southee highlighted Herath's role in mentoring the squad’s spinners. While Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel are the main spin options, players like Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, and Michael Bracewell offer further versatility.

"Herath, a Sri Lankan legend with over 100 wickets on this ground, has been working closely with our left-arm spinners," said Southee. "Historically, spin has been key in Galle, but there’s also a challenge for our pace bowlers to do well, which is tough but rewarding."

Southee acknowledged the balance in New Zealand's squad, which features specialist spinners and versatile all-rounders, as well as four quality seamers. He expressed confidence in finding the right combination to succeed in the Sri Lankan conditions.

New Zealand Squad vs Sri Lanka: Tim Southee (captain), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Kane Williamson, Will Young.