Wellington: New Zealand ended a three-month search for national cricket coach appointing former Test batsman Mark Greatbatch today.

The 46-year-old replaces Andy Moles who stepped down as Blackcaps coach last October amid player appeals for his dismissal. Greatbatch, who played 41 Tests for New Zealand, will also continue his role as a Blackcaps selector.

The Greatbatch announcement came a day after New Zealand Cricket said Ross Taaylor would step in as captain should Vettori be unable to lead the side during the upcoming series against Bangladesh and Australia.