In a thrilling final-over finish, Kent emerged victorious over Lancashire by a margin of just five runs in a tense battle at Blackpool. The hosts, led by the young debutant Rocky Flintoff, fell just short of the target of 210 set by Kent, with Keaton Jennings’ valiant unbeaten century ultimately not enough to secure the win.
Flintoff, at just 16 years and 113 days old, made history as the youngest debutant in Lancashire’s 160-year history. Despite his promising start, scoring 12 runs off 28 balls, he was dismissed by Matt Parkinson’s bowling, which proved crucial in the outcome of the match. Parkinson ended with figures of 4 for 30 in 8.2 overs, with his dismissal of Ollie Sutton in the final over sealing the victory for Kent.
Jennings’ remarkable innings of 107 not out off 140 balls, including 13 fours and a six, looked to be steering Lancashire towards a win, but Kent’s determined bowling attack, led by Beyers Swanepoel’s 3 for 26, ensured they defended their total successfully. Finch’s contribution with the bat, scoring 48 runs, was instrumental in Kent’s total after a shaky start.
Despite a slow start and losing early wickets, Kent managed to steady their innings with partnerships building up gradually. Jack Leaning and Jaydn Denly provided some stability with their contributions, but it was Finch and Parkinson’s partnership towards the end that pushed Kent to a competitive total of 209.
In reply, Lancashire started off steadily but lost wickets at crucial junctures, failing to accelerate the run rate when needed. Despite Jennings’ heroics, the middle-order collapse and Kent’s disciplined bowling, led by Green’s 3 for 38, proved too much for Lancashire to overcome.
As the match came down to the wire, Lancashire required 15 runs off two overs, with Jennings bringing up his century in a valiant effort to chase down the target. However, Barnard’s run out and Sutton’s dismissal in the final over sealed the win for Kent, sparking celebrations among the visitors.
In what was a closely contested match, both teams showed great skill and determination, but it was Kent who ultimately prevailed in the final-over finish at Blackpool, securing a well-deserved victory over Lancashire.
