KENT bowler Min Patel has agreed terms to play first-class cricket in New Zealand with title-chasing Central Districts.

The former England left-armer spinner is flying out on February 13 on a contract that could take him through to April 6, should Districts reach the five-day championship final.

Patel, who has never previously played in New Zealand said: "I got a call out of the blue over Christmas from John Emburey telling me Central, who are equal second in the State Shield competition, were looking for a spinner.

"He put me in touch with the club and I’ve signed until the end of their season. It’s the only Test-playing country I haven’t been to so it's a great way to get the full set.

"I know a couple of their players, Matt Sinclair and Jacob Oram, and the place where I’m to be based is regarded as one of the most beautiful parts of the world, so I’m delighted."

Meanwhile, pace bowler Amjad Khan is also on his travels to Chennai in India to work with Troy Cooley at the Dennis Lillee Bowling Academy, where England paceman Simon Jones also plans to complete his rehabilitation from ankle surgery.