Kent have signed West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite for the first four matches of the Vitality Blast.

The 29-year-old is third overseas player for the Spitfires for the T20 competition starting in July.

The World T20 champion, who made his name hitting four successive sixes in the final over of the 2016 final against England, will join the Spitfires squad before the opening group match at Surrey on Friday, July 6.

Brathwaite, who has played three Tests, 28 ODIs and 25 T20s for West Indies, said: “I’m delighted to be joining Kent Spitfires for my first taste of county cricket.

“I have a good relationship with Sam Billings, having played in the same team at the IPL and BBL. Sam chatted to me about the opportunity to join and has told me a lot about the great support and atmosphere on T20 nights.

“I hope I can entertain the supporters and am looking forward to joining up with the Spitfires squad.”

He has also played for both Sydney Sixers and Thunder in the Big Bash League as well as Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League.

Kent director of cricket Paul Downton said: “Carlos is a proven match winner. He is an explosive ball striker and a skilful white-ball bowler with good variations and extensive experience in the 20-over format.

“We are excited that Carlos will be with us for the start of our Vitality Blast campaign. I’m sure he’ll make an impact in his brief spell with the Spitfires.”

Listen to the latest episode of our Kent Cricket Podcast below:

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis will succeed Brathwaite as the squad’s second overseas player ahead of a likely debut against Sussex Sharks at The Spitfire Ground on Friday, July 27 (7pm).

Early Bird T20 tickets for all Vitality Blast home matches are on sale until July 1. Entry is included in All Rounder (£265) and Spitfire (£175) Memberships.