The Northern Knights' first steps towards defending the domestic Twenty20 title has come in the form of their first overseas signing - explosive Australian batsman Travis Birt.

Ahead of the upcoming Georgie Pie Super Smash, the Knights have signed the former T20 player, known for his hitting ability.

Travis Birt in action for the Hobart Hurricanes.

Birt, currently contracted to Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League in Australia, recently played against the Knights in the Champions League Twenty20 where his Hurricanes team made the semi-finals.

The 32-year-old has experience in the New Zealand domestic competition having previously played with the Wellington Firebirds.

A left-handed top order batsman, Birt boats an impressive strike rate of 130 across 95 T20 matches.

Knights coach James Pamment says Birt will bring a vital element to the side with his clean ball striking ability.

He says: 'We see him capable of batting anywhere in our middle order depending on our team make-up, and are sure that he will deliver that explosive hitting that sets him apart from other players.

'We have also been very careful again to secure a player that we know will fit in and contribute well to the Knights' environment.”

Birt is once more looking forward to the challenge of playing in the NZ competition and likes what he has seen of his new team so far.

'The Knights are a terrific team - the reigning champions - and the environment that I saw in the recent Champions League T20 was one that I know that I will enjoy,” he says.

'I can't wait to line up for them in November."

The first T20 Festival Weekend for the Knights begins on November 1 from 3.50pm.

The SKYCITY Northern Knights will announce their second overseas player next Tuesday.