By Bibhash Dash
Former New Zealand Under-19 international Kieran Noema-Barnett has joined Gloucestershire on a three-year contract.
Noema-Barnett is hailed as a hard-hitting batsman and useful seam bowler, and will work under compatriot John Bracewell, who is director of cricket at Gloucestershire.
The 27-year-old is not classed as an overseas signing as he holds a British passport and will join a Gloucestershire side that finished seventh in LV= County Championship Division Two but were quarter-finalists in the Royal London One-Day Cup.
Noema-Barnett plays for Central Districts in his homeland and is expected to be a one-day specialist for Gloucestershire.
“It is fantastic news to have signed Kieran for the club,” Bracewell said.
“He is a fine all-rounder in all forms of the game and will strengthen and support our developing group with his leadership experience.”
Noema-Barnett brings the experience from 45 List A and 63 Twenty20 matches under his belt.
He boasts a top score of 107 in first-class cricket, and said of his move: “I'm rapt to be joining Gloucestershire Cricket.
“It's a very exciting time for myself and the club and I can't wait to get involved with the lads and contribute to the team.”