A former Kent captain is to rejoin the county after they beat off stiff competition for his signature.
Ashford-born batsman Sam Northeast, who will turn 36 in October, will make his Kent comeback under head coach Adam Hollioake in time for the start of next summer on a two-year deal, with the option of a third season.
Northeast had been in talks with Glamorgan over extending his four-year stay in Wales and was also wanted by several other counties but – now a father – his family home has always remained in Kent despite Northeast having played his cricket elsewhere since 2017.
“I’m delighted to be returning home to Kent next season,” he said.
“I believe I still have a great deal to contribute across all formats and, while I’ve enjoyed my time away, I know that coming back to Canterbury is the right decision at this stage of my career.
“As someone who grew up in the county, Kent has always been close to my heart.
“I always knew I would return to my boyhood club and I’m proud to, once again, wear the White Horse.
“The club is in an exciting place with a clear focus on the future, and I hope my experience can help support and develop the next generation of Kent-produced talent.”
Northeast made his Kent debut in 2007 as he graduated from the Academy and made more than 300 appearances for the county over 10 seasons. He scored more than 13,500 runs, including 24 centuries, in that time.
He’s one of seven Kent cricketers to have scored a century for the county in all formats in the club’s history.
Northeast was appointed club captain in 2015 and skippered Kent on 134 occasions, averaging 44.79 with the bat while he led the side.
He left in February 2018, having been replaced as Kent captain by Sam Billings a month earlier, but will now return “home” to Kent.
Northeast will be joined in Kent’s 2026 first-team squad by seam bowler Matt Milnes, who has also re-signed for the county on a three-year deal.
Director of cricket Simon Cook, who played with Northeast at Kent in the early stages of his career, said: “Sam was our top target when it became apparent that he was available and he will add top-order talent and experience.
“We’re delighted that he has chosen to return to Kent next season and our young batters, in both the first team and Talent Pathway, will draw from his vast experience.
“I’m sure his return ‘home’ will be greatly received by our members and supporters.”
Northeast, who grew up in Walmer, also has had loan spells at Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire since he left Kent.
