Seamer Matt Milnes extends contract with Kent

After joining Kent from Nottinghamshire as a relatively unheralded seamer at the end of the 2018 campaign, Milnes enjoyed a terrific breakthrough year in 2019, claiming 55 wickets on Kent’s return to the top tier of the County Championship

Kent bowler Matt Milnes has signed a new contract with the county.

The 26-year-old has agreed an extension that will see him remain at the club until at least the end of the 2022 season.

After joining Kent from Nottinghamshire as a relatively unheralded seamer at the end of the 2018 campaign, Milnes enjoyed a terrific breakthrough year in 2019, claiming 55 wickets on Kent’s return to the top tier of the County Championship.

That form, which saw him construct dangerous partnerships with fellow seamers Harry Podmore and Darren Stevens, led to an England Lions call-up for their unbeaten tour of Australia. And when domestic cricket returned following the coronavirus-enforced delay in 2020, Milnes broke into the county’s T20 side, playing 11 times.

On extending his contract, he said: “There is a genuine belief now that silverware is just around the corner and hopefully I can contribute towards trying to make this a reality.

“I’m driven to keep on working and improving by the fantastic group of players here, and it was an easy decision for me to remain a part of a team with lots of potential.”

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Kent director of cricket Paul Downton added: “Matt has made a significant impact both on and off the field since joining the club.

“His work ethic and competitiveness is second to none and his ability to bowl match winning spells makes him a stand out talent. This has already been recognised by the England selectors with a call-up to the England Lions after his first full season in county cricket.

“Matt is still an inexperienced bowler and he knows there is still room for him to improve, which I am confident he will do working closely with bowling coach, Simon Cook.

“I am delighted Matt has signed a contract extension which will keep him playing for Kent for at least the next two seasons.”