Stewart and Evison’s Stand Saves Kent in County Championship

BLACKPOOL: James Anderson’s debut as captain of Lancashire in the County Championship concluded in a dramatic draw against Kent at Stanley Park, Blackpool, on Thursday. Despite Anderson’s efforts, a resilient partnership denied Lancashire a victory.

The 42-year-old Anderson, leading the Red Rose for the first time, seemed set for a successful start when Kent faltered, standing at 116/7 in their second innings, still trailing by 149 runs. However, an assertive century by Stewart and steadfast support from Joey Evison prevented Anderson from securing a win in his inaugural match as captain.

Stewart, entering at Number nine, shifted the game’s momentum with a remarkable 130 off 122 deliveries, which included nine sixes and 12 fours. His alliance with Evison, totaling 172 runs, not only erased the deficit but also provided Kent with a 63-run advantage, ultimately concluding at 328/8 and ensuring a draw. Evison remained not out with a determined 77 from 176 balls.

Anderson, who displayed effectiveness with the ball throughout the match, ended with overall figures of 3/91 across both innings. He bowled with his signature accuracy, completing 30 overs, including nine maidens, and eventually dismissed Stewart late in the day with the second new ball.

Earlier in the match, Lancashire had gained a significant advantage. Australian spinner Chris Green stood out with figures of 4/104, while seamer Tom Bailey claimed 3/61, pushing Kent to the edge of defeat. However, Stewart’s aggressive response, featuring three consecutive sixes off Mitchell Stanley and reaching a fifty in just 42 balls, turned the tide.

In Kent’s initial innings, Ben Compton’s century propelled them to 374, before Lancashire applied pressure with a substantial 639/9 declared, highlighted by a dominant 152 from Luke Wells and centuries from Josh Bohannon and Ashton Turner.