Overseas deals ‘a headache’

Matt Walker is still on the hunt for overseas recruits to join Kent this summer - but concedes signing them is one of the biggest headaches coaches now face.

South African all-rounder George Linde is presently due to return for the second year of a two-year all-format deal in 2023 and Australian fast bowler Kane Richardson is set to be with the Spitfires for their T20 Blast campaign.

While Walker is eager to bring in more overseas talent, particularly those who can bolster their bowling options, it has become quite a challenge to sign anyone for a decent period due to the amount of franchise cricket being played globally. He said: “We’re still looking for an overseas to start the season with and, obviously, for the middle part of the season. “But it’s the biggest headache we all face now to put that piece of the jigsaw together. It’s tricky with lots of cricket going on around the world at that time of year - whether it’s the IPL or international cricket. “Then you need to find the right fit for your team from a financial point of view and an availability point of view. “Do they qualify? Are they eligible for a work visa with the amount of games they’ve played in enough formats? You end up with a very small pool. “But we’re working very hard to bring players in for various parts of the season in the overseas area. Hopefully we’ll get there. I’m sure we will. “Our bowling supply is good but a little bit limited so perhaps we could do with another domestic bowler as well so we’ll keep looking and keep working.”

But even without further arrivals, Kent’s squad appears strong.

Walker admitted: “We’ll have some headaches, especially at the start of the season when Zak [Crawley] will be around and, obviously, Sam Billings is back.

“If everyone is fit and well, there’s only so many batters that can play! “There’ll be tough decisions to make.”