Former Blackcaps' batsman Matt Horne has been named as the assistant coach at the Skycity Northern Knights.

Matt played 35 test matches and 50 ODIs for New Zealand, and brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge of top level cricket.

Photo: File.

His most recent role was as head coach for the Auckland Aces, but the 44-year-old chose not to extend that contract this year, preferring to join the Knights' coaching group instead.

'I'm thrilled to be joining the Skycity Northern Knights management team,” Matt says. 'Being involved as a member of this team is a challenge which I am very much looking forward too.

'The current balance of the playing squad is an extremely exciting proposition, with a blend of quality, experience and potential.”

Northern Knights head coach James Pamment says he is pleased with the appointment.

'Matt and I go back a number of years,” says James, 'where we both played first class cricket for Auckland.

”We also coached the New Zealand Under-19 World Cup team together in 2012, so we know each other well and I am sure we will be able to complement each other's coaching skill-sets.”

Matt begins his new role on September 1.