Rhodes Leads Warwickshire’s Dominance on Day One Against Kent

Former Warwickshire captain Will Rhodes showcased his affinity for the Kookaburra ball as Warwickshire took command on the first day of their match against a struggling Kent side at Edgbaston.

Rhodes, who had previously scored 242 runs in two matches at Edgbaston when the Kookaburra ball was used earlier in the season, continued his fine form, finishing the day unbeaten on 82. His efforts helped Warwickshire reach 207-3 by stumps, building a 51-run lead after bowling out Kent for just 156 in under 40 overs.

Despite losing openers Rob Yates (40) and Alex Davies (37), along with Sam Hain (32), all of whom were well set, Rhodes remains poised to add to his tally on day two, aiming for a well-deserved century and a potentially match-winning lead. This match is particularly significant for Rhodes, who is set to leave Warwickshire at the end of the season, with only one more home game remaining. A victory in this match would be Warwickshire's first red-ball win of the summer and a fitting farewell for Rhodes.

Kent, who appears destined for relegation to Division Two, struggled from the outset after being asked to bat first against the Kookaburra ball, which tends to favour bowlers in its initial overs. Opener Ben Compton fought valiantly, carrying his bat for 70 runs before being the last wicket to fall. Joey Evison contributed 28, but no other Kent batsman reached double figures.

Warwickshire’s Olly Hannon-Dalby struck early, removing last week’s double-centurion Tawanda Mueye with just his fourth delivery, caught behind. Chris Rushworth then took out Kent captain Daniel Bell-Drummond five overs later, inducing an edge to third slip. Hannon-Dalby struck again, dismissing Jack Leaning, who was well caught by Sam Hain at first slip.

Evison and Compton briefly steadied the ship, adding 57 runs in 13 overs, but Ed Barnard broke their partnership, dismissing Evison for 28. This wicket triggered a collapse, with Michael Booth removing Harry Finch, Grant Stewart, and Charlie Stobo in just 11 balls, leaving Kent reeling at 121-7 by lunch.

Kent’s innings was quickly wrapped up in the afternoon session, and Warwickshire resumed their dominance with the bat. Rhodes, after settling in, continued to steer the Bears toward what could be a much-needed victory, as they aim to break their streak of five consecutive home draws this season.