Lee the pick of the attack as Spitfires beat the Panthers

KENT’S cricketers rounded off Canterbury Week in style with an exciting 12-run win over the Middlesex Panthers in the Nat West Pro40. After losing the LV County Championship match earlier this week, Kent gained sweet revenge with two youngsters playing a key role in the victory.

Warren Lee (3-39) and Matt Coles (3-50) held their nerve at the end to bowl the Spitfires to victory after England batsman Owais Shah (130) had threatened to win it for Middlesex.

Lee (pictured)was the pick of the Kent attack and was delighted with his contribution: "That was pretty special. I was pleased to get an opportunity and I really enjoyed it. The atmosphere was good and the crowd certainly helped us win the game. It was special to get Owais because he was going along nicely and guiding them home so I was delighted to take his wicket and help us to a win."

The young fast-bowler added: "It was pretty tough out there when Shah was in. He is such a good player and was scoring runs so easily. It was a great experience for me – especially bowling at the death. You have to hold your nerve and fortunately we came out on top.”

Skipper Rob Key felt that giving the youngsters an opportunity was the right way of doing it: "I was pleased for the young ones today. They did well and helped us to the win. I thought Stevo and Joe batted well and I always felt we had a good score at the halfway stage. The youngsters then showed good temperament with the ball and it helped us through. It was good to see them doing well because we will need the squad to perform with some big matches coming up. It was a priceless experience for them and it sure it will help them improve their games"

Kent are back in action on Tuesday when they travel to Northampton for a four-day LV County Championship match against Northants.

Picture: Terry Mahoney