Hampshire Cricket has signed New Zealand international Suzie Bates for the women's 50-over competition.

Bates, who featured prominently for the Ageas Bowl based Southern Vipers during last year’s victorious Kia Super League campaign, will be eligible to play for the side for the duration of this year’s one-day competition.

The 29 year-old,signed on International Women's Day, joins forces with Southern Vipers skipper and Hampshire batsman, Charlotte Edwards, who also joined the club during the off-season.

Bates willplay for Hampshire before captaining her national side at the upcoming Women’s World Cup, which is being held in England.

Hampshire Women Head of Performance and Southern Vipers Manager, Bob Parks, said: “We’re delighted to have Suzie here at Hampshire – it’s a big boost for the squad ahead of an important year.

“The quality she brings with both bat and ball, as well as the experience she offers, will be of real benefit to our young side and we’re excited to have her on board before she joins up with New Zealand for this summer’s World Cup.”

The right-hander, who made her international debut more than a decade ago, has been an instrumental part of the national side throughout her career, totalling more than 3,400 runs at an average of 41.08, whilst also claiming 72 wickets at 30 apiece in 98 ODI fixtures.

Bates was a key contributor to last year’s triumphant Vipers side, notching 232 runs at an average of more than 46 – including an excellent half-century in the competition’s final - and picking up nine scalps at an average of just 13.77.

She also has previous experience at English county level having represented Kent last season.

The all-rounder’s 206 runs at an average of 41 as well as nine wickets at an average of just 8.33 were crucial in helping secure the domestic double for the county in 2016.