Legend Stevens to leave Kent
Darren Stevens will leave Kent at the end of the season after 17 years with the club.
The legendary all-rounder will depart this summer having been an incredible success since signing from hometown club Leicestershire ahead of the 2005 campaign.
“It’s bitter-sweet that my time at Kent has finally come to an end after such a long run where I’m so proud to have lived out my boyhood dream with such a phenomenal club,” said the 46-year-old, nicknamed Stevo, who hopes to play on elsewhere next year.
“The memories will stay with me forever.
“I have been fortunate to have played with some of the greats of the game and created lifelong friendships.
“I’m so grateful for being able to do what I love for so long and, during that time, achieve so many success stories - for both myself and the club.
“There are so many people to thank that contributed to my time here, David Fulton and Simon Willis for giving me the opportunity to represent the club back in 2005.
“Keysie [former Kent captain Rob Key] for giving me the new ball and beginning my bowling career. All my team-mates over the years, and the Kent employees that have helped me in different ways.
“Last but by no means least the fans. How you have stuck by me over the years - celebrating my highs and supporting me through my lows - your support has been overwhelming and something I will always be grateful for so thank you!
“I’m looking forward to the next chapter but looking back I’m very proud of the one I’ve just completed.”
Kent director of cricket Paul Downton said: “Over the last 25 years, Darren Stevens has been an inspirational cricketer.
“His numbers are remarkable in the modern era, which, along with his ability to influence and win matches, make him a true Kent legend.
“It is unthinkable that a player of his talent was never selected to play international cricket.”
Stevens twice helped guide Kent to T20 Blast glory - hitting an unbeaten 30 in their 2007 final against Gloucestershire to lead them to victory before Matt Walker’s team won the crown again last year. Stevens had been left out for Kent’s T20 quarter-final against the Birmingham Bears but returned to play his part on finals day at Edgbaston.
He was set to leave the club three years ago after being told there was no new contract offer on the table but his stunning form prompted a U-turn amid a growing call among supporters for Kent to reverse their decision.
Kent say they are working with Stevens, who has been sidelined since injuring his calf while batting in their Royal London One-Day Cup loss to Glamorgan, to ensure his contributions are suitably recognised.