New Zealand Test captain Tom Latham has been announced as one of Warwickshire’s overseas signings for the 2025 season. Latham’s availability aligns well with Warwickshire’s domestic calendar, as New Zealand’s international commitments during the English summer are minimal, barring a potential appearance in the World Test Championship final in June and a tour of Zimbabwe in July-August. This arrangement will likely allow Latham to play a full season across all formats for the Bears.

Warwickshire, who finished seventh in Division One of the County Championship in 2024, has been seeking to bolster their batting line-up following the departures of Will Rhodes and Chris Benjamin, as well as the unexpected retirement of Michael Burgess. Securing a player of Latham’s calibre marks a significant step forward for the club as they look to strengthen their squad for the coming season.

Gavin Larsen, Warwickshire’s performance director, expressed his satisfaction with the signing. “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,” Larsen said. “He’s a class player, one of the finest batters in international cricket, and I’m delighted he’s chosen Warwickshire.”

Larsen highlighted the rarity of signing a player of Latham’s quality for an entire season. “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 added.

Latham’s involvement is expected to extend beyond the red-ball format. Although primarily known for his Test career, Latham has an impressive record in T20 cricket, having played over 100 matches with an average of 30 and a strike rate of 131. Larsen noted that Latham’s skill set would also be a valuable addition to the Birmingham Bears’ T20 Blast campaign.

“He’s known more for his red-ball career, but Tom has played more than 100 T20s, averaging 30 and with a strike rate of 131,” Larsen explained. “He’s an extremely smart T20 player with a full range of strokes; another great option for our Blast campaign. He’ll also bring experience and leadership to our squad. His impact on our batting group, in particular our younger players, will be invaluable.”

Latham is no stranger to county cricket, having previously represented Kent, Durham, and Surrey. The 2025 season will mark his fourth stint with an English county side. Speaking about his new role with Warwickshire, Latham expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity.

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

The experienced left-hander also reflected on the prospect of immersing himself in the local culture and contributing to Warwickshire’s ambitions. “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,” he added.

With Latham’s signing, Warwickshire aims to rejuvenate their squad and contend for silverware in 2025. His proven track record across formats, coupled with his leadership qualities, positions him as a key figure in the club’s quest for success on multiple fronts. Fans at Edgbaston and beyond will undoubtedly look forward to seeing the New Zealand captain in action as the Bears prepare for an exciting season ahead.