Bears swoop for New Zealand Test star

The 32-year-old will bolster a Bears batting line-up hit by the departures of Will Rhodes and Michael Burgess.

Latham, who recently guided New Zealand to a historic 3-0 Test whitewash against India in his first series as skipper, has signed a one-year deal to play all formats at Edgbaston.

The 32-year-old averages just under 40 in Test cricket and has more than 250 international caps to his name. He had previous stints in England with Kent, Durham and Surrey.

Latham said: “Warwickshire is a club with a great history and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to represent them.

“I’ve played at Edgbaston before and know how much the fans get behind the team there. It’s one of my favourite venues, so I’m excited to call it my home ground for the 2025 season.

“It’ll also be nice to bring the family to Birmingham and spend some time exploring the city.

“I’d love nothing more than to help the Bears lift a trophy. I’m looking forward to the whole experience.”

The Bears had been in desperate need of batting additions after Rhodes’ departure to Durham and the surprise retirement of wicketkeeper Burgess earlier this month. With little crossover between New Zealand’s schedule and the English domestic calendar, Latham is expected to be available for most of the summer and will be involved in the T20 Blast campaign.

Bears performance director Gavin Larsen said: “We’ve been working behind the scenes to bring in someone to strengthen our top order, someone with proven ability and experience.

“Tom fits the bill ideally, and it’s a real pleasure to have secured him for the 2025 season.

“He’s a class player, one of the finest batters in international cricket, and I’m delighted he’s chosen Warwickshire.

“The New Zealand team has limited conflict with our domestic cricket calendar next season. In this modern cricket world it’s rare to have a player of Tom’s quality and experience agree to join, and be available, for an entire season.

“He’s known more for his red ball career, but Tom has played more than 100 T20s during his career, averaging 30 and with a Strike Rate of 131. He’s an extremely smart T20 player with a full range of strokes; another great option for our Blast campaign.

“And he’ll also bring experience and leadership to our squad. His impact on our batting group, in particular our younger players, will be invaluable.”