LANCASHIRE have signed New Zealand international Neil Wagner as their overseas player for the 2016 season.

The left-arm medium-fast bowler will primarily play in the County Championship as the Red Rose make their return to Division One.

Wagner, 29, made his Black Caps debut against the West Indies in 2012 and he has taken 67 wickets from 18 Tests at an average of 33.34.

In First-class cricket Wagner has taken 431 wickets in 104 matches, and in April 2011 he took five wickets in a single over for Otago against Wellington.

Ashley Giles, cricket director and head coach at Old Trafford, said: "We are delighted to have brought in Neil Wagner to strengthen our bowling attack.

“Neil is a world class bowler with a tremendous pedigree and having him available for such an extended period will give our County Championship Division One campaign a real boost.

“I am looking forward to him adding some additional quality to our squad.”

South Africa-born Wagner had a short spell for Northants in the County Championship 2014 and has also played league cricket in the North West previously.

"I am extremely excited to play for such a great club. I have always admired Lancashire, ever since playing in the Liverpool Lancashire League for Ormskirk in 2008," said Wagner.

"I’m very much looking forward to joining up with the squad and working with Ashley and the rest of the team. I hope my contributions will help Lancs to win some silverware to sit in the cabinet at Emirates Old Trafford."