Paceman Henry returns for second spell
Cricket
New Zealand international Matt Henry will return to Kent this summer.
Fast bowler Henry took 75 wickets in 11 matches to help Kent win promotion from Division 2 of the County Championship two years ago. The 28-year-old will play at least the first seven matches of Kent’s Division 1 campaign, starting against Lancashire at Old Trafford on April 12.
“I’m thrilled to be able to come back to Kent after having
Tom Carpenter marked his return from injury to lead the 444-strong field in the Maidstone parkrun. Carpenter (17min33sec) was well clear of second-placed Simon Hesketh, who finished in 19.07, and Jason Gardiner (19.35) in third.
Kerstin Sung, the ladies’ winner two weeks ago, ran a personal best 20.39 to repeat that feat.
Last week’s runner-up, Leona Franklin, was second again in 21.22 and Ffion Harris took third in 21.46. such an enjoyable time here in 2018,” said Henry.
“It was great to see the club perform so well back in Division 1 last summer. “There’s a great group of guys here and I’m looking forward to playing in a Kent jersey again in the club’s 150th year.” Kent director of cricket Paul Downton said: “Matt is a hugely popular figure in the dressing room and also with our members and supporters. “We are absolutely delighted that he will be joining us for the first half of the season as we look to compete and win matches in Division 1.
“Matt’s ability to lead the attack and his proven ability to take wickets in English conditions make him a really exciting addition to our squad. “We can’t wait to welcome him back to Kent this season.” Meanwhile, Alex Blake has become the county’s first white-ball contracted player. Blake has been seen as a one-day specialist for many seasons but his new contract at Kent means he will only play one-day matches.
The deal is common at many other counties around the county and means Blake will no longer feature in the County Championship for Kent.
The 30-year-old has extended his deal at Kent until the end of the 2022 season.
Blake said: “I’ve enjoyed a good career so far as a Kent player and I’m excited that I can focus on my white-ball game for the Kent Spitfires. “I really enjoyed playing redball cricket for Kent, especially scoring my 105 not out against Yorkshire in 2010, but limited overs matches are where my passion lies.”