Kent have signed New Zealand captain Suzie Bates for the 2016 season.

The Wisden Leading Woman Cricketer of the Year joins a strong Kent squad including five current England internationals, more than any other county.

The 28-year-old right-hander averages more than 40 in one-day internationals with seven centuries and 16 fifties in her career.

The White Ferns all-rounder said: “I’m really looking forward to playing county cricket with Kent this summer.

“I played with Charlotte Edwards for Perth Scorchers and I already know Kent’s England players so cannot wait to join up with the squad.

“It’s a big season for Kent as they look to win that seventh title so I’m looking to contribute with bat and ball and gain some more experience of English conditions.”

Bates is line to make her debut in Kent’s first home match on Sunday (15 May) in the Royal London One-Day County Championship against Middlesex at The Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence (11am start).

Next up for Kent Women is a Bank Holiday double-header at The County Ground, Beckenham on Sunday 29 May and Monday 30 May against Staffordshire and Surrey (11am start).

Tickets to the match cost £5 and entry is free for Kent Cricket members and Canterbury Christ Church University students and staff.