Captain Sam Northeast says these are ‘exciting times’ at Kent after the club signed New Zealand opener Tom Latham as a second overseas player for 2016.

The 23-year-old left-hander averages 39 in his 18 Test appearances for the Black Caps and made a half-century against Australia in Wellington two weeks ago, though he departed for 4 and 39 in this week’s clash in Christchurch.

Latham is also an accomplished back-up wicketkeeper, having kept against England in the first Test at Lords last summer after an injury to regular gloveman 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 South African pace bowling phenom Kagiso Rabada, 20 and skipper Northeast admitted: “These are absolutely exciting times for the club as they are two good signings.

“It has been exciting watching Rabada playing against England and Latham has shown he is one of the best in the business at facing quicks.

“I think they are both going to be a perfect fit, they are two highly-talented, young and ambitious players who want to better themselves. Given the make-up of our squad and how it is now they should fit right in.”

Head coach Jimmy Adams said: "We’re delighted to have Tom playing with us this season. He brings valuable experience gained from playing at the international level across all formats.

"We are confident that he will play a big role as the club pushes for promotion in the County Championship and white-ball success."

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

Northeast added: “It will be great to have Tom here so soon. With Sam Billings away (In the IPL) we’ll need Tom’s bat from the start of the season.

“We can’t play two overseas in the two Championship games when they are both here, but it does mean we have the chance to play them both in six T20 games which is exciting.”

Of Rabada’s arrival Northeast added: “We were looking for a star player, one with quality but that would fit into the squad. We asked about Rabada and Cricket South Africa were keen for him to get some experience in English conditions.

“Once things started to progress it was an absolute no-brainer. I’ve never faced him but as a 90mph bowler I wouldn’t want to. I’m glad he’ll be on my side.”