Warwickshire’s relentless pursuit of their first Championship victory of the season gained momentum on the opening day of their Division One clash against relegation-threatened Kent at Edgbaston.
Kent’s batting woes continued unabated as they were bundled out for a paltry 156 in just 39.5 overs. Michael Booth, Olly Hannon-Dalby, and Chris Rushworth shared nine wickets, dismantling Kent’s fragile batting lineup. Only Ben Compton (70) and Joey Evison (20) managed double-figure scores.
Warwickshire’s seamers exploited the conditions to perfection, with Hannon-Dalby claiming his 500th wicket in all formats for the Bears. Kent’s fielding was equally abysmal, with a crucial drop of Compton on 1 proving costly.
In response, Warwickshire openers Rob Yates and Alex Davies made a brisk start, adding 62 in 11 overs. Davies departed for 29, but Will Rhodes (82*) and Sam Hain (44) consolidated the innings with a patient 94-run partnership.
Rhodes, in particular, played with composure and determination, reaching his 11th first-class century. Warwickshire ended the day on 207 for 3, holding a commanding 51-run lead.
Kent’s relegation fears intensified with this dismal performance. They have now collected just nine batting points from ten games and face an uphill battle to avoid the drop to Division Two.
