Durham’s Alex Lees led the charge with a scintillating century as the hosts took control of their Vitality County Championship clash against Kent. Despite a valiant six-wicket haul from Matt Parkinson, Kent trail by 264 runs with seven wickets remaining.
Lees, the Durham skipper, set the tone with a rapid 144 off 180 deliveries, including 18 boundaries. He was ably supported by Emilio Gay (52) and David Bedingham (66), who contributed to Durham’s first-innings total of 360.
Kent’s response began poorly, losing early wickets to Daniel Hogg and Bas de Leede. However, Harry Finch and Jack Leaning steadied the ship with a 72-run partnership. Finch eventually fell for 34, leaving Kent on 96 for 3 at stumps.
Parkinson was the star performer for Kent, claiming 6 for 109. He removed Lees, Ollie Robinson, and both Hogg brothers to give the visitors a glimmer of hope.
Durham’s innings was characterized by aggressive batting, with Bedingham hitting three fours and four sixes in his 38-ball 66. Lees reached his century in just 115 balls, while Gay impressed on his home debut with a composed 52.
Kent’s reply was hampered by the loss of Tawanda Muyeye and Jaydn Denly, but Finch and Leaning showed resilience with their partnership. Colin Ackermann eventually dismissed Finch, leaving Kent with a mountain to climb in the second innings.
