Latham joins Rabada as Kent build squad

Cricket

Kent have signed New Zealand opener Tom Latham as a second overseas player for 2016.

The 23-year-old lefthander averages 39 in his 18 Test appearances for the Black Caps and made a half-century against Australia two weeks ago.

Latham is also an accomplished back-up wicketkeeper, having kept against England in the first Test at Lord’s last summer after an injury to BJ Watling.

After Latham’s signing was confirmed on Tuesday lunchtime, the Kiwi said: “I’m delighted to have joined Kent for the season. Playing county cricket has always been a goal of mine. I’ve heard great things about the playing group and coaching staff, so I can’t wait to get started and help the boys push for some silverware.”

The signing follows last week’s deal for young South African pace bowler Kagiso Rabada, 20. Head coach Jimmy Adams said: “We’re delighted to have Tom playing with us this season. He brings valuable experience gained from playing at international level across all formats.”

Rabada is set to arrive in June and subject to approval from the Black Caps, Latham is expected to join after the seasonopener at Worcester on April 10 and stay with the club until mid-August, when New Zealand face a home Test series against South Africa.

leading Kent players flew to India on Monday as preparations for the season step up.

Joe Denly, Matt Coles, James Tredwell and Adam Riley joined Charlie Hartley, Hugh Bernard and Sam Weller on a 10-day trip where they will train in warm weather at the Global Cricket School in Mumbai.