2018 Second XI schedule revealed

Kent’s second XI will begin their competitive season with a home double-header against Somerset at Polo Farm in late April.

Min Patel’s side will entertain the Westcountry club for a 50-over Trophy match on Monday 23 April before a three-day Championship fixture starting the following day.

Before the competitive calendar starts, the second string travel to Northants for a three-day friendly before two 50-over friendlies and a four-day practice game at The County Ground, Beckenham.

The bulk of the fixtures will be held near Kent’s two main training facilities at Beckenham and Polo Farm with Trophy matches against Glamorgan at Bromley on Monday 4 June and Unicorns at Folkestone on Friday 6 July.

Two four-day friendlies at The Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence complete the season with MCC Young Cricketers and Essex providing the opposition on August 20-23 and 27-30 respectively.

Second XI coach Min Patel said: “With a smaller squad this season, there will be an opportunity to look at Academy scholars and possibly some emerging age-group talent.

“We will also look at potential recruits who will be aiming to follow in the footsteps of Sean Dickson and Grant Stewart in earning a professional contract by impressing at second team level.

“We’ve arranged a few more four-day friendlies to provide more opportunities to test players in red-ball cricket as there are only eight three-day Championship matches.”

2018 Second XI fixtures >

There will be an invitation-only trial for prospective players in March.

Players with ECB Premier League, Division One or equivalent experience can request an application form via e-mail by contacting laura.friend.kent@ecb.co.uk