Vaas to assist New Zealand bowlers

AFP

Vaas to assist New Zealand bowlers

Former Sri Lanka paceman Chaminda Vaas will work with New Zealand as a specialist bowling coach on the Black Caps' upcoming two-Test tour of his homeland.

The 38-year-old, who recently finished a spell with English county side Northamptonshire, took 355 Test wickets before retiring from international cricket last year.

He will begin working with the Sri Lanka players on November 11 ahead of Test matches in Galle and Colombo.

"I am pleased to have the chance to work with an international team, particularly a side like New Zealand with such a large number of talented young fast bowlers," Vaas said on www.blackcaps.co.nz.

"I feel my recent experience as a player and understanding of conditions in the sub-continent will benefit the team."

New Zealand coach Mike Hesson said: "Chaminda was highly regarded as a player with an impressive international record and we're fortunate to have secured his services for the Test series.

"The coaches and players are excited by the prospect of having someone with his cricketing knowledge work with the group.

"His extensive playing experience in local conditions will provide valuable input as we plan and prepare for the Test series in Sri Lanka.

"An important part of his brief will be to provide tactical advice to the bowling unit, especially our contingent of left-arm seamers.

"In terms of professional development, it's a great opportunity for Shane Bond to work alongside a different style of coach and I'm sure he'll benefit from the experience."