Neesham: Claydon & Coles were exceptional

Kent all-rounder James Neesham paid tribute to the Spitfires attack as Kent snatched a five-run win at Southampton.

The New Zealander who conceded just two runs off his final over: “My wicket of Dawson was part of the comeback but the way Claydon and Coles closed up the last two overs was exceptional.

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“We knew we were behind the 8-ball for much of that second innings but knew a couple of good overs and we were right back in it and the way the guys delivered at the death did the job for us.

“I said before that 160 was about on par. The way the spinners bowled it was tough to get the ball away when they put it in the right areas.

“It skid on under lights but the pitch was not an absolute belter. I was happy to see Afridi up there in the shed rather than out in the middle.”

The win takes Kent level on points with Hampshire in fourth although the group is tightly packed with three Friday night T20s at The Spitfire Ground in three weeks to play.

“You look at the group and we are two points off second and a point off last. Everyone has work to do to get to the quarter finals.”