Kent emerged victorious in a thrilling three-wicket triumph over Derbyshire in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup at Derby. Jack Leaning’s unbeaten 81 from 117 deliveries proved pivotal in guiding Kent to victory, despite Derbyshire’s valiant efforts.
Chasing a target of 207, Kent’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing six wickets for 106 runs. However, Leaning and Grant Stewart’s 48 from 39 balls reignited their hopes. Leaning and Matt Parkinson then combined for a crucial 33-run partnership, securing the win with 28 balls to spare.
Derbyshire’s innings was anchored by Brooke Guest’s 85 from 117 balls. Harry Moore’s career-best 40 and a 75-run eighth-wicket stand with Guest propelled Derbyshire to a respectable total of 206. Parkinson claimed three wickets for Kent, while George Garrett’s late movement proved effective.
Kent’s bowlers displayed discipline on a used pitch, with Garrett dismissing Harry Came early on. However, Derbyshire’s innings was marred by soft dismissals, including Luis Reece’s run-out and David Lloyd’s return catch. Parkinson’s spell proved decisive, removing Anuj Dal, Samit Patel, and Yousaf Bin Naeem.
Guest and Moore provided Derbyshire with much-needed stability, keeping the scoreboard ticking over without taking excessive risks. Moore’s three consecutive fours off Jas Singh in the 44th over boosted Derbyshire’s hopes. Guest’s innings ended on 85, while Moore was run out in the 47th over.
Derbyshire’s bowlers fought back, with Moore dismissing Marcus O’Riordan and Daryn Dupavillon taking a stunning catch to remove Joey Evison. Patel struck twice in quick succession, removing Jaydn Denley and Harry Finch.
With Kent reeling at 78 for 3, Leaning and Stewart steadied the ship. Stewart’s two sixes off Harry Brown seemed to be sealing the victory, but Moore’s superb catch at fine leg ended his innings. Leaning remained resolute, hitting three fours off Moore and guiding Kent to a hard-fought win.
This victory keeps Kent’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive, while it dents Derbyshire’s chances of qualification.
