Barbadian fast bowler Akeem Jordan enjoyed a dream debut in County Cricket on Friday when he claimed an impressive five-wicket haul for Kent in their Vitality County Championship Division One match against Worcestershire at New Road.
The 29-year-old, who recently made the leap from West Bromwich Dartmouth in the Birmingham and District Premier League, was the standout performer for Kent, taking figures of 5-97 from 26.1 overs. His sharp, disciplined bowling was the best on show for Kent as the bottom placed side bowled Worcestershire out for 447 runs on Day 2.
As Worcestershire began the day on 137 for 2, Jordan struck early, dismissing Gareth Roderick for 63 runs with a delivery that moved away, taking the edge and finding the wicketkeeper’s gloves. His persistence paid off throughout the innings, with Adam Hose also falling to him after an aggressive half-century. Jordan’s ability to consistently trouble the Worcestershire batsmen helped Kent limit the damage and stay within striking distance.
While Worcestershire’s captain Brett D’Oliveira made a triumphant return from injury, scoring a brisk 97 off 90 balls, it was Jordan’s five-wicket haul that kept Kent in the game, ensuring that Worcestershire’s lead was only 276 runs.
A late surge from Tawanda Muyeye, who is unbeaten overnight on 80, has reduced the deficit to 172 runs with eight wickets in hand as they head into the third day, still very much in the contest.
Jordan’s debut for Kent has not only highlighted his potential as a strike bowler in English conditions but justified their choice to sign him as they strive to battle out of the relegation places. (JC)
