Tom Latham to play for Warwickshire in 2025 season
What's the story
New Zealand Test team captain Tom Latham has signed a contract with Warwickshire as an overseas player for the 2025 season.
Given that New Zealand's cricket schedule fits perfectly with the English summer, Latham will be able to play across all formats for the Bears.
This comes as Warwickshire looks to strengthen their batting after Will Rhodes and Chris Benjamin's departures and Michael Burgess's sudden retirement.
Director's remarks
Warwickshire's performance director lauds Latham's signing
Warwickshire's performance director Gavin Larsen was delighted to have secured Latham for the 2025 season.
He called Latham "a class player, one of the finest batters in international cricket," and was happy that he chose Warwickshire.
Larsen also noted how rare it is to have a player of Latham's caliber commit to an entire season, given the limited overlap between New Zealand team's schedule and their domestic cricket calendar next year.
T20 contribution
Latham's T20 skills to benefit Birmingham Bears's Blast campaign
Larsen also stated that Latham, who has played 26 T20 internationals, will prove to be a great asset to the Birmingham Bears's Blast campaign.
Although he is better known for his red-ball career, Larsen described Latham as "an extremely smart T20 player with a full range of strokes."
He added that Latham's experience and leadership will be a huge asset to their squad, especially the younger players.
Player's perspective
Latham expresses excitement about joining Warwickshire
Latham, who is currently representing New Zealand in their three-match Test series against England, was excited to join Warwickshire.
"Warwickshire is a club with a great history and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to represent them," Latham said.
He also spoke about his familiarity with Edgbaston and its supportive fans, calling it one of his favorite venues.