Derbyshire followed their T20 achievements with a fantastic County Championship win over Kent last week. They did, winning the match by an innings and 14 runs! The match finished in spectacular fashion on the final day. Derbyshire truly showcased their dominance from start to finish by declaring their first innings at a huge 587 for 5.
Luis Reece was the star man in Derbyshire’s victory, carrying his side to victory with bat and ball. He contributed significantly to the team’s first innings total and later returned to dismantle Kent’s batting order, claiming three wickets for just 21 runs from 10 overs. His tireless work was a huge part of Kent collapsing before noon on the last day.
Kent’s innings got off to a shaky start when Zak Chappell, right from the start, delivered a vicious riposte. He had Tawanda Muyeye caught behind to the keeper, as the batsman waved helplessly outside off stump at a bouncer. That early wicket was a harbinger of Kent’s awful morning. They soon became mired in crisis, tumbling from 36 without loss to 40 for 4 in a mere eight overs. They found it difficult to even get to 247 for 9, never recovering from the early thrust. With Jake Ball injured and unable to bat, that only made their situation worse.
As the innings progressed, Anuj Dal made his mark when Harry Finch’s attempted shot deflected off his thigh pad and onto the stumps. The pressure kept piling up on Kent as Reece picked up his second of the day as he bowled Jack Leaning in double time. Soon thereafter, Nick Potts made a terrific play at short. He took a breathtaking tumbling catch at deep mid-off to see off Grant Stewart in spectacular fashion.
The fight was a true exhibition of Derbyshire brilliance. Chief of cricket Mickey Arthur beamed his pride in his team’s magnificent display.
“The boys were outstanding. I thought they did a fantastic job – from ball one we were on it.” – Mickey Arthur
Kent’s head coach Adam Hollioake reflected on his team’s struggles throughout the match.
“We were behind the run of the game from the beginning. We didn’t bowl well in the first hour and we know how important that is.” – Adam Hollioake
Derbyshire’s win means they are now assured of finishing above Glamorgan in the league table. Kent suffers their fourth straight defeat, raising questions as to their fortunes at this time. The defeat is a reality check for them as they continue through the deepest part of the championship season.
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