Henry earlier played for Kent in 2018, when he picked 75 wickets in 11 matches © Getty

New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry will return to Kent for the upcoming English summer. The county has signed him for the first seven Championship games for its Division 1 campaign, starting against Lancashire at Old Trafford on April 12.

Henry earlier played for Kent in 2018, when he picked 75 wickets in 11 matches and helped the side earn a promotion from Division 2. He couldn't be signed in 2019 as he was busy with New Zealand's World Cup campaign.

"I'm thrilled to be able to come back to Kent after having such an enjoyable time here in 2018," said Henry. "It was great to see the club perform so well back in Division 1 last summer. There's a great group of guys here and I'm looking forward to playing in a Kent jersey again in the club's 150th year."

During his previous stint with the club, Henry picked figures of 7 for 45 at Durham before his current best first-class figures of 7-42 against Northamptonshire at Canterbury. He was named Kent's Bowler of the Year at the end of that season.

"Matt is a hugely popular figure in the dressing room and also with our members and supporters," Kent director of cricket Paul Downton said. "We are absolutely delighted that he will be joining us for the first half of the season as we look to compete and win matches in Division 1. Matt's ability to lead the attack and his proven ability to take wickets in English conditions make him a really exciting addition to our squad. We can't wait to welcome him back to Kent this season."

Kent have already re-signed Fred Klaassen, Grant Stewart and Alex Blake this month.