Billings pride as Kent surge into top flight

KENT returned to Division One of the County Championship for the first time since 2010 by wrapping up an emphatic win over Glamorgan yesterday, while Worcestershire’s relegation was confirmed as they suffered a crushing defeat at Essex. Kent won by an innings and 172 runs having bowled Glamorgan out for 78. Captain Sam Billings said: ‘I’ve never played first division Championship cricket and it’s always been my ambition, so I’m tremendously proud this team have taken Kent back to the level where this great club feels it belongs.’ Warwickshire are close to joining Kent in the top flight. The Bears are 141-0 against Sussex, giving them a lead of 238 in a game they only need to draw to clinch promotion. Essex seamer Jamie Porter — hoping to figure in England’s winter plans — finished with match figures of 11 for 98 as Worcestershire were trounced by an innings and 129 runs.