Ben Kellaway produced a brilliant display for Glamorgan. He batted beautifully in compiling that 181 not out in victory against Kent in their last game. The 21-year-old all-rounder from nearby Chepstow cut a massive swathe through the competition. In reply to 547 for eight declared, he led his side’s declaration at 549 for nine, setting a formidable target. It was a significant innings for Kellaway’s batting abilities, as it was the 27-year-old’s first-class cricket maiden century.
Kellaway started the day in a strong position, having been 91 not out at the end of day three. He had a tremendous amount of patience and craftsmanship. With a splendid cover drive, he brought up his century and carted Kashif Ali for three consecutive runs. Across the course of his innings, which totaled 228 balls faced, he hit 18 fours – a striking balance of aggression and assured technique. As a player, he electrified the crowd with his batting. In an extraordinary onslaught, he hit three consecutive sixes and a four off bowler Matt Parkinson.
The young Welsh cricketer’s maiden century was chanceless, a testament to his poise and confidence at the crease. Just two matches prior, Kellaway had celebrated his maiden first-class fifty, highlighting his rapid improvement and growing confidence in the middle order. His innings set Glamorgan up to take a dominant position in the match.
Kellaway went on to post a large partnership of 108 runs with Andy Gorvin, deepening Glamorgan’s control on the scoreboard. As Kellaway wrapped up his innings, the sense of exhaustion was there, but so was the feeling of contentment.
“I’m fatigued but delighted to kick on this morning after a solid start yesterday, and to get us into a solid position in the game, it’s a really nice feeling.” – No specific name mentioned
Following Kellaway’s exceptional performance, Kent faced the challenge of responding to Glamorgan’s substantial total. Kent’s coach, Adam Hollioake, acknowledged the pressure that was building upon his side. He conceded that his bowlers did not perform to the level they are capable of, allowing Glamorgan a chance to take control.
“I’m disappointed because we probably didn’t bowl at our best and we’ve given Glamorgan a bit of scoreboard pressure.” – Adam Hollioake, BBC Radio Kent
While Kellaway’s innings was undoubtedly the outstanding knock, Hollioake was keen to praise the mature resistance of Chris Benjamin even more. He challenged Kent to claim their greatness, to start by reining in their budgetary shortfall.
“Chris Benjamin showed that if you dig in and show a bit of resilience then you can bat out there, so we have to try to minimise this deficit and take time out of the game.” – Adam Hollioake, BBC Radio Kent
As the match progresses, Kellaway’s outstanding performance has not only set a high benchmark for himself but has reinvigorated his team’s aspirations for victory. His knack for pacing his innings and setting up partnerships has been the foundation of Glamorgan’s plan.
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