Second XI defeat Essex at Polo Farm
A devastating spell of pace bowling by Nathan Gilchrist saw Kent’s Second XI to a 13 run victory against Essex Second in their Second XI T20 South Group match at Polo Farm.
Gilchrist took 4 for 37 as the visitors chased a target of 206, but ended their innings on 191 for 8 from their 20 overs.
Essex opener Will Buttleman scored 44 of his 49 runs in boundaries before becoming Gilchrist’s first victim, out lbw. The Kent bowler then destroyed the Essex middle order as they chased runs with three quick wickets despite a defiant 40 from Feroze Khushi.
The visitors needed an improbable 22 off the last over bowled by Harry Podmore, who captained the side to victory. There was a wicket apiece for Marcus O’Riordan, Jarred Lysaught and Academy bowler Jas Singh.
A brilliant opening partnership of 82 in 6.4overs between Joe Gordon 53, with eight fours, and a six, and Tawanda Muyeye 45, set Kent on their way to their total of 204 for 7. Sam Burgess then chipped in with 46 not out and Lysaught 24.
Kent Second XI’s next match is on Sunday, June 13 when they play Surrey, at New Malden in a South Group T20 match quickly followed the next day Monday back at Polo Farm when Sussex will be the visitors for a T20 encounter. As things currently stand, no spectators are allowed at Kent Second XI matches.
By Peter Burrowes