Matt Parkinson kept his composure to guide Kent Spitfires to a thrilling five-run victory over his former team, Lancashire, in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup at Blackpool on Sunday.
The leg-spinner, who contributed with the bat earlier, claimed two crucial late wickets to seal the win. Parkinson, who scored 19 with the bat, returned figures of 4-30.
Lancashire seemed set to chase down Kent’s modest total of 209, thanks to captain Keaton Jennings’ century. However, Kent’s bowlers, particularly South African all-rounder Beyers Swanepoel with his 3-26 off nine overs, were instrumental in defending the target on a challenging wicket.
Jennings scored 107 not out from 140 balls, including 13 fours and a six, but could not secure the win for Lancashire. The game also saw 16-year-old Rocky Flintoff, son of the legendary Andrew Flintoff, make his debut for Lancashire.
Kent struggled early in their innings, managing just 46 runs in their first 10 overs. Swanepoel was dismissed for 19, and the visitors faced further trouble as they lost key wickets. Despite this, Harry Finch top-scored with 48, and Parkinson’s late contribution ensured Kent’s innings reached 209.
Lancashire’s chase faltered early with Swanepoel dismissing both George Bell and Josh Bohannon. Jennings and Balderson added 41 runs, but crucial breakthroughs by Kent bowlers, including Stobo and Parkinson, put Lancashire on the back foot.
Jennings fought valiantly but was left with too much to do. Despite a late surge, Lancashire fell short, with Parkinson and Swanepoel playing key roles in their defeat.
Parkinson described the victory as a huge morale boost for Kent, saying, “’Buzzing’ is the only word I can use to describe the dressing room at the moment.”
Kent will next face Hampshire at Beckenham in their first home game of the One-Day Cup on Wednesday.
