47-year-old former Warwickshire batsman Andy Moles is to succeed John Bracewell as coach of New Zealand.

He will take over the reins in time for next month's Test series against the West Indies - bringing an early end to his third season in charge of Northern Districts.

Matthew Mott had been the front-runner for the Black Caps job but decided instead to re-sign with New South Wales for a further two years.

Moles - who has coached Free State, Hong Kong, Kenya and Scotland - led Northern Districts to the State Championship crown in his first season as coach in 2006/2007.

Bracewell, who has been in charge for the past five years, had been contracted through to April but will now be able to rejoin Gloucestershire as director of coaching earlier than anticipated.

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan said of Moles: "Andy has an outstanding coaching background.

"He has made a real impact at Northern Districts over the past two seasons and also brings more than 15 years' experience coaching at international level.

"He also brings leadership, passion, commitment and a drive to get the best out of his teams - attributes we believe are essential for this role.

Vaughan also announced an enhanced role for former New Zealand batsman and one-time India coach John Wright.

"John Wright, who was on the selection panel, will become a national selector and will work closely with Andy," he said.

He thanked Bracewell for his hard work and congratulated him on his record.

"John has achieved tremendous success with the New Zealand side - including Test series wins against South Africa, Sri Lanka and the West Indies and one-day series victories over England, Australia, the West Indies, India, South Africa and Pakistan - among others," Vaughan recalled.

"He also coached the BLACKCAPS to semi-final spots in the 2006 Champions Trophy, 2007 World Cup and the 2007 Twenty20 World Cup. He can be proud of record."