Claydon knows he must perform to keep his place

Mitch Claydon says competition among Kent’s bowlers is fiercer than ever but that’s his motivation for getting out of bed in the mornings.

The 34-year-old has become one of the pivotal figures in Kent’s attack since moving from Durham in 2013 but says that does not mean he ever takes his place for granted.

Claydon spent five-and-half months over the winter working hard in Australia and his reward has been a return of 10 wickets from Kent’s opening two championship games, taking his career tally across all formats to 522.

Claydon, whose First-class debut was for Yorkshire in 2005, said: “For the last 13 years I know what I have to do, the ball’s in my court when they (Kent) allow me to go away for five months, I have to show them I’m still keen and eager.

“All these young blokes are getting better and better so I’ve got to come back better and better every year.

“It’s something I’ve thrived off because the young blokes are driving me every day to get fitter and better because if I slacken off by 5%, they’re going to take my spot, so it’s getting me out of bed every morning and keeps me training.”

Kent, who have brought in signings James Harris – on loan – and Wayne Parnell, have six other pace bowlers on their books – Matt Coles, Calum Haggett, Matt Hunn, Charlie Hartley, Ivan Thomas and Hugh Bernard.

During his time with Yorkshire, Durham and Kent, Claydon has played more than 300 games and is closing in on a century of championship appearances. able to come and ask for advice is something I relish.

“I spent seven years at Durham where we won three championships (2008, 2009, 2013) and a one day trophy (the Friends Provident in 2007). That’s something that was special. I used to sit in that dressing room and look around and there were all these international players.

“I still pinch myself about it today and even look at scorecards and things like that and see the names of players I played with but this is totally different.

“I’ve had a much bigger role on the pitch and I’ve got a bigger role off the field as well.”

With 48 victims last season Claydon was Kent’s leading wicket taker in the championship – finishing 11 clear of his nearest rivals. The whole-hearted seamer got through 399.4 overs – only Darren Stevens (401.1) bowled more – with his performances earning him his cap and a new contract.

He also lies fifth in Kent’s all-time list of T20 wicket takers and admits he enjoys playing in the Garden of England although one thing would make the experience better – if Kent were to win a trophy.

Claydon added: “We just need to win that one big game and we’ll never look back.”