Match Report: Kent Second XI vs. Northamptonshire Second XI
Saturday 23rd April 2022
After being set an unlikely 426 for victory, in their championship match with Northamptonshire Second XI, at Polo Farm, Canterbury, Kent Seconds, crashed to a heavy defeat, losing by 276 runs after being bowled out in their second innings for just 149.
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The visitors included 10 contracted players in their squad and proved far too strong for a mixed Kent side of youth and some experienced players.
In their first innings Northamptonshire scored 344. James Sales 90 not out with 14 fours, and Josh Cobb 89, with 12 boundaries, and three sixes. Grant Stewart was the pick of the bowlers with 5 for 50 in his last action for the county, before leaving the match to join Sussex on a months loan.
Kent Seconds then trailed by 107 on first innings, after being bowled out for 237. Wicketkeeper Billy Mead, a former MCC Young Cricketer, scored 76, and Alex Blake 43.
With the cushion of their three figure advantage, Northants prospered in their second innings 318, Sales again in the runs with 71, James Cronie 72 and Gus Miller 80.
Kent’s George Ealham, son of former Kent star Mark Ealham, took a creditable 3 for 30, and there was a cameo performance from youngster Jaydn Denly, on his debut, conceding just 24 runs from 10 overs.
Denly, who plays for Whitstable in the Kent League, is the nephew of Kent batter, Joe Denly, who is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Denly then showed his all-round potential by top scoring with 33 in Kent’s second innings as they slumped to defeat.
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With a victory against Sussex, and this loss, Kent Second XI go into their third championship match of the season, starting on Monday, April 25, when Essex Seconds, will be the visitors to The County Ground, Beckenham.
Members and supporters have free entry to the match.
By Peter Burrowes
