Bowlers find fitness in Second XI T20
Harry Podmore & Matt Milnes both bowled overs as they return to match-fitness as Kent Second XI were defeated by a strong Sussex side at The 1st Central County Ground, Hove.
Despite a half century by former Sussex batsman Harry Finch against his former county, Kent’s Second XI were beaten by four wickets in the South Group T20 match against a Sussex Second XI that included seven players with first team experience.
Finch, back in familiar surroundings on the south coast, captained the Kent side and hit four boundaries in his 50-run innings. Alex Blake struck a quickfire 35, with five fours and a six, in Kent’s total of 142 for 7 from their 20 overs, after they had won the toss.
Sussex won with four overs to spare, as they reached their victory total of 143 for 6. Sussex captain and former England international, Luke Wright top scored for the home side with 37.
Kent bowlers Milnes and Podmore, who have both missed a number of Kent first team Championship matches with injuries, both eased their way back into action, Milnes taking 3 for 26 and Podmore 1 for 12, as they look to return to full fitness ahead of Kent Spitfires’ first Vitality Blast match against Hampshire Hawks next week.
The Second XI’s double header South Section T20 matches against Hampshire, which were due to be played at the Rose Bowl, on Wednesday, were postponed and have been re-arranged at The County Ground Beckenham, on Thursday June 17. Hampshire’s ground was required for use by the International Cricket Council to prepare for the World Test Championship.
Kent’s Second X1 are in action again on Monday, June 7, in their third South Group T20 match of the season when they play Middlesex Seconds, at Merchant Taylors School, Northwood, with a 14:00 start.
By Peter Burrowes