Thomas Reeves

Folkestone Invicta captain Kevin Lokko scored the first senior hat-trick of his career in a 5-1 opening-day National League South victory over Walton & Hersham. Lokko joked that manager Jay Saunders had ended the £50-per-goal incentive used last season, but said winning games mattered more. He praised new signing Harvey Kedwell and other teammates, while acknowledging that the squad still needs to develop defensively and improve fitness. Despite a postponed match against Ebbsfleet United, Folkestone aim to maintain their momentum ahead of a Kent derby at Maidstone United.

Faversham Town began its season with a 4-2 FA Cup extra preliminary-round win over Corinthian-Casuals, with Ethan Smith, Ibrahim Olutade, Nathan Wood and Jack Steventon scoring. Manager Steve Watt used the match to give young midfielder Lennon Diamond a late substitute appearance and said the club wants to establish a genuine route from its under-23s to the first team. Faversham now faces Bedfont in the next cup round, while beginning its Isthmian South East campaign against Sevenoaks before hosting Deal. Watt also provided updates on player availability, including the expected return of Kieron Campbell and ongoing management of Tashi-Jay Kwayie’s injury.

Chatham Town Women manager Keith Boanas says the squad has strong competition for places as the team begins its National League Division 1 South East campaign against a revamped Actonians side. Chatham are targeting promotion, have retained most of last season’s squad and added players including Mara Bramwell, Abby Bavarik, Faye Baker, Megan McAniskey, Jade Keogh and returning player Holly Turner. Actonians have changed manager and financial structure, with former Hashtag United personnel expected to shape the team. Boanas is recovering from surgery and may not be in the dugout, while departing prospective co-manager Jess King has taken a full-time role elsewhere.

Herne Bay have been ordered to replay their FA Cup extra preliminary round tie against Broadfields United after the Football Association identified an issue with Herne Bay making a sixth substitution in the 88th minute of their 6-1 victory. The replay will take place at Broadfields United on August 18, forcing Herne Bay to rearrange their scheduled league derby at Ashford United. Broadfields United said they would comply with the decision but suggested both the match officials and Herne Bay were at fault for allowing the substitution.

Dartford player-manager Ben Greenhalgh says his side will respect Maldon & Tiptree despite their 6-0 opening-day defeat, noting that Maldon responded with a win over Aveley and will be motivated at home. Dartford began the season with a 3-2 comeback victory against Three Bridges after falling two goals behind, then beat Brentwood Town 1-0 in midweek. Greenhalgh praised the squad’s resilience, attacking combination between Max Fiddes and Dan Smith, and set-piece threat. Defender Emmanuel Oke could return from a shoulder injury for Saturday’s match.

Chatham Town manager Kevin Hake said his side could take positives from their 3-1 opening-day Isthmian Premier defeat at St Albans City, particularly their character after Harry Lodovica was sent off. Jimmy Wild scored Chatham’s consolation goal. The team responded in midweek with a 3-1 home win over Dulwich Hamlet, with Bradley Stevenson, Lodovica and Reece Butler on the scoresheet. Hake urged his players to learn from the defeat and maintain perspective ahead of Saturday’s match against newly promoted Three Bridges.

Whitstable Town begin their return to Step 4 football with an Isthmian South East trip to fellow newly promoted side Peacehaven & Telscombe. Manager Lee Martin says the club has scouted its opponents but will prioritise its own strengths and remain willing to change tactics during the match. Whitstable enter the fixture after a 3–1 FA Cup win over Roffey, with goals from Derek Asamoah, Jack Nelson and Kenny Aileru, although midfielder Tom Beere suffered a knee injury. Martin also discusses discipline, squad competition and the impact of new signings ahead of the league opener and Tuesday’s home fixture against Sittingbourne.

Lordswood began their Southern Counties East League Division 1 season with a 3-0 victory over Banstead Athletic, with Luke Adams and Shaquon Williams scoring before substitute Tyler Sterling completed the win. Manager Callum O’Shea believes Sterling, signed from Lydd, will be a major threat once fully fit. Lordswood next host higher-division Corinthian in the FA Vase and aim to establish themselves as promotion contenders after finishing fourth and losing two finals last season. O’Shea says the club’s primary target is to win the league and regards missing the play-offs as an underwhelming outcome.

Margate assistant manager Matt Longhurst believes the club could become difficult to stop if he and manager Jamie Coyle successfully unite the team and supporters behind their plans. Margate opened their Isthmian South East campaign with a 0-0 draw at Cray Valley despite Gibou Njie’s dismissal, while goalkeeper Harry Seaden impressed in place of the suspended Jacob Russell. Longhurst also explained the decision to release popular winger TT Walters and previewed Saturday’s home fixture against Crowborough Athletic, who arrive after strong pre-season results and a 5-0 FA Cup win over Guernsey.

Folkestone Invicta manager Jay Saunders believes the National League South derby at financially troubled Ebbsfleet United should have gone ahead, arguing it could have generated useful revenue. The postponement leaves Folkestone without a fixture this weekend, so the team will train instead. Invicta began their first National League South season with a 5-1 win over Walton & Hersham, led by Kevin Lokko's hat-trick, but remain without injured Liam Smith and John Akinde. Their next match is a local derby at Maidstone United.

Chatham Town host Dulwich Hamlet at the Bauvill Stadium in their first home Isthmian Premier league match of the season, seeking to recover from a 3-1 defeat at St Albans. Manager and chairman Kevin Hake wants supporters to recreate last season’s strong away following and make the stadium difficult for opponents. Dulwich arrive after a commanding 6-0 win over Maldon & Tiptree, while striker Jimmy Wild is pushing for a starting role after scoring as a substitute in Chatham’s opener.

Whitstable Town began their FA Cup campaign with a 3-1 win over a 45-year-old Derek Asamoah scoring after 70 seconds, while Faversham Town beat Corinthian-Casuals 4-2. Erith Town recorded the biggest victory among the featured winners, defeating Steyning Town 7-3, and Deal Town, Bearsted and Erith & Belvedere also progressed. Punjab United and Snodland also won, while Herne Bay, Sheppey United and Corinthian were held to draws and face replays. Sevenoaks Town, Larkfield & New Hythe and Phoenix Sports were eliminated.

Lordswood followed up their recent improvement with a five-wicket win over Minster, led by Linden Lockhart’s 75 and Calum MacLeod’s unbeaten 63, although they remain 30 points from safety. Tunbridge Wells defeated league leaders St Lawrence & Highland Court by 58 runs, while Bexley chased down Hayes’ 277 for a four-wicket victory. Sevenoaks Vine beat Whitstable by 151 runs, and Blackheath defeated Bromley by 89 runs. Whitstable remain only one point above second-bottom Minster in the relegation battle.

Kent seam bowler Matt Milnes has rejoined The Hundred after signing for Trent Rockets, meaning he is expected to miss at least Kent’s One-Day Cup fixtures against Leicestershire and Warwickshire. If Trent Rockets reach the competition’s latter stages, Milnes could be unavailable until August 17, but Kent do not expect the absence to affect their County Championship Division 2 promotion campaign. Director of cricket Simon Cook described the move as a major personal opportunity while acknowledging its short-term impact on Kent.

Folkestone Invicta began their inaugural National League South season with a 5–1 win over fellow newly promoted Walton & Hersham. Captain and defender Kevin Lokko scored a hat-trick, while Aaron Cosgrave and Joe Pigott also found the net before Junior Dixon pulled one back for the visitors. The match attracted 1,253 spectators, and Folkestone’s next competitive fixture is scheduled to be a derby at Maidstone United on August 18 after its match at Ebbsfleet United was postponed.

Joe Denly has retired from professional cricket after a final Kent appearance in a two-wicket Metro Bank One-Day Cup victory over Somerset in Canterbury. The 40-year-old hopes to remain involved with Kent’s coaching setup and has already enjoyed mentoring players in the second team. Denly reflected on his England career across all three formats, his Ashes experience, Kent’s trophy wins and the special significance of playing at Canterbury, where he was born. He also praised the club’s emerging talent, including Ekansh Singh, Olly Curtiss and his nephew Jaydn Denly, while indicating that family time—not immediate club cricket—will be his main priority.

Dartford player-manager Ben Greenhalgh has challenged his revamped squad to record the most clean sheets in the Isthmian Premier Division this season. The team has kept three shut-outs during pre-season, including a 4-0 win over Ashford United, and Greenhalgh believes the defensive unit has gelled well alongside an increasingly potent attack. Despite minor injuries and a difficult early fixture schedule, Dartford are approaching Saturday’s trip to newly promoted Three Bridges with confidence and aim to establish themselves near the top of the table.

New Rochester United manager Andy Pierce believes the Southern Counties East League Division 1 title race will be unusually open after SE Dons and Greenwich Borough departed. Following last season’s play-off disappointment, Rochester is targeting promotion and begins its campaign at home against Welling Town. Pierce has retained most of the existing squad, added players including Aston Freeman and Connor Watson, and is confident that greater squad depth will help the team compete throughout the season.

Whitstable Town begin a new era under manager Lee Martin by hosting Roffey in the FA Cup extra preliminary round. Roffey arrive in strong form after an 8-0 league win and a 3-2 midweek victory, but Martin believes Whitstable’s higher-level recruits can provide a competitive edge. The manager is still seeking the right team balance after an unsettled pre-season, while also aiming to build a stronger connection with the club’s supporters and pursue a successful FA Cup run.

Faversham Town manager Steve Watt is encouraged by his side's performances against higher-division opposition, including a 4-2 pre-season win over Cray Wanderers after a draw with Ramsgate and defeat by Dartford. Despite Faversham being regarded as an Isthmian South East promotion favourite, Watt cautions that pre-season form does not guarantee success and stresses the need for resilience, discipline and consistency. He believes the experienced squad has shown the character required for a promotion campaign. Faversham begin their competitive season at home against Corinthian-Casuals in the FA Cup extra preliminary round before opening their league campaign at Sevenoaks.

Herne Bay manager Ben Smith is urging patience as he begins his first full season in his second spell at the club. He says the team is only 40% to 50% of the way toward his desired level after a major change in playing style and a series of new signings. Despite a strong pre-season, including a 7-1 win over Harold Hill, Smith does not want to add pressure and expects progress to take time. Herne Bay open their season at home against Broadfields United in the FA Cup extra preliminary round before facing Sheppey United in the Velocity Cup.

Faversham Strike Force manager Stuart Benfield is hoping a Friday-night FA Cup extra preliminary-round tie against local rivals Snodland Town at The Belmont draws a large crowd. He expects a tough match against a Snodland side now managed by player-manager Connor Dymond, despite the familiarity between the teams. Benfield also reflected on Strike Force’s 3-3 opening-day draw at Tunbridge Wells, admitting frustration at conceding a late equaliser against 10 men but accepting that the result was fair overall. He said the team must improve its management of the closing stages of matches.

Folkestone Invicta joint-assistant manager Lloyd Blackman believes the club can turn Cheriton Road into a fortress as it begins its first National League South campaign against fellow newly promoted side Walton & Hersham. Folkestone, which won the Isthmian Premier title last season, is encouraged by increased season-ticket sales, strong support and a successful pre-season that ended with a 2-0 victory over Welling United. Blackman acknowledged the challenge of stepping up a division, injury concerns and the need for new signings to gel, but said the squad is in a good position ahead of successive away derbies at Ebbsfleet and Maidstone.

Margate manager Jamie Coyle believes he can help 20-year-old defender Frankie-Jay Moralee develop after the Hornchurch loanee made his debut in a 2-0 pre-season defeat by Ramsgate. Coyle acknowledged that Margate, rebuilt over the summer, are still short of full cohesion but said the performance showed promise. Margate begin their Isthmian South East campaign away at Cray Valley, whom Coyle expects to provide a difficult test after their strong pre-season results.

Dover Athletic manager Jake Leberl says the club accepted a calculated risk by signing 22-year-old striker Sonny Fish from Torquay United, believing he has the pedigree to play at a higher level despite two difficult seasons. Fish is not yet fully match-fit and is expected to need time to replace departed top scorer George Nikaj. Dover begin their National League South campaign at Billericay Town with several players injured, leaving Leberl concerned that the squad is short of depth, although he expects most absences to be short term. He also anticipates a tougher survival challenge than last season and welcomed a new strategic partnership involving the Suonal group, which is expected eventually to replace Jim Parmenter as majority shareholder.

Hayes defeated Whitstable to move within four points of Kent Cricket League Premier Division leaders St Lawrence & Highland Court, whose match at Minster was abandoned after 26.1 overs because of an alleged dangerous pitch. Both sides were initially awarded nine points, pending a league committee investigation. Lordswood beat Bexley by 40 runs, Bromley defeated Tunbridge Wells by five wickets, and Sevenoaks Vine beat Blackheath by five wickets to improve their position near the bottom of the table.

Kent defeated Somerset by two wickets at Canterbury in a high-scoring Metro Bank One-Day Cup match. Somerset made 313-9, with Lewis Goldsworthy scoring 87 and Josh Thomas 60, while Matt Milnes took 3-53 for Kent. Daniel Bell-Drummond then struck a century to anchor Kent's reply, but late wickets left 84 runs needed from the final 10 overs. Ekansh Singh's rapid 40 from 20 balls and Grant Stewart's unbeaten 35 completed the chase with eight balls remaining. The match also marked Joe Denly's final Kent appearance at Canterbury, ending in a celebratory send-off in front of more than 2,500 spectators.

St Lawrence & Highland Court lead the Kent Cricket League Premier Division by 13 points after recording a seventh consecutive victory, despite season-ending injuries to Ben Mills and the departure of overseas bowler Iain Carlisle. Captain Matt Hammond credited the club’s shared responsibility and growing confidence. The team defeated Bromley by nine wickets in a rain-delay-like match reduced to 40 overs, bowling them out for 95 before Josh Julian’s unbeaten 52 secured victory inside 12 overs. St Lawrence next travel to Minster, while the club’s second team and other local sides also reported results.

Dartford player-manager Ben Greenhalgh is balancing the need to identify his strongest starting lineup with managing player workloads before the Isthmian Premier season begins. Dartford beat Faversham Town 2-0 after a cancelled midweek friendly and will host Ashford United in their final pre-season game. Greenhalgh is encouraged by the team’s defensive record and the response of strikers Dan Smith and Max Fiddes, but expects a demanding opening schedule, beginning away at newly promoted Three Bridges on August 8.

Whitstable Town will finish pre-season against newly promoted AFC Whyteleafe, their first meeting since Whitstable’s 2-1 extra-time FA Vase final victory at Wembley in May 2025. Manager Lee Martin says the clubs’ good relationship made the fixture easy to arrange, while acknowledging Whyteleafe’s progress. Whitstable are preparing for a demanding start featuring an FA Cup tie against Roffey, a league opener at Peacehaven & Telscombe and a home match against Sittingbourne. Martin has built a new-look squad rapidly following a turbulent summer and is pleased with the recruitment, although further player movement is possible. The team recently beat Bridon Ropes 4-2 after a planned friendly against Chislehurst Glebe was cancelled and drew 0-0 with a young Gillingham side.

Joey Evison will leave Kent at the end of the 2026 season to join Sussex on a three-year contract, reuniting with former Kent head coach Matt Walker. The 24-year-old joined Kent from Nottinghamshire and made more than 100 appearances, including a match-winning contribution in Kent's 2022 One-Day Cup triumph. After falling out of favour under current head coach Adam Hollioake and spending time on loan at Leicestershire, Evison said he felt the time was right for a new opportunity. Kent director of cricket Simon Cook expressed disappointment but accepted the decision and said the departure would create opportunities for other squad members.

Faversham Town manager Steve Watt expects goalkeeper Tom Hadler to be central to the club’s promotion push in the Isthmian South East after the 29-year-old returned from a serious knee injury. Hadler has featured in two pre-season matches and is set to become the No.1, while Liam Sheriff will remain his deputy, though he could be dual-registered to gain regular playing time. Watt was encouraged by Faversham’s competitive 2-0 defeat to Isthmian Premier side Dartford and is also hopeful that attractive, successful football will increase attendances. The Lilywhites drew 1-1 with Ramsgate in their latest warm-up match and will finish pre-season against Cray Wanderers.

Dover Athletic have appointed Paul Goddard as vice-chairman, Simon Wakeham as commercial director and Catherine Hamilton-Woodthorpe as finance director under a new strategic partnership with the Suonal group. Chairman Jim Parmenter will remain in his roles for now, while an agreed framework would allow Suonal to become the club’s majority shareholder over time. The group will continue existing financial and sponsorship support, invest in off-field operations and commercial growth, and introduce live music after Saturday home matches to improve the matchday experience. The partnership comes shortly before Dover begin their new season.

Manchester City and Ghana winger Antoine Semenyo visited Dartford’s Princes Park to train independently as part of his pre-season preparations. Dartford player-manager Ben Greenhalgh welcomed the visit, noting that Semenyo’s journey from non-league football to the Premier League could inspire the club’s players. Semenyo previously played for Bournemouth before joining Manchester City for £64 million and scored the winning goal in the club’s FA Cup final victory over Chelsea.

Deal Town manager Steve King believes young striker Jamie Kennedy can enjoy a successful season after scoring twice during pre-season, including against Dover Athletic. King praised Kennedy’s improvement but said he must become more consistent, while also expressing satisfaction with Deal’s overall performance despite the defeat. The Hoops will finish their warm-up schedule against Hythe Town before beginning the season with consecutive home cup ties, against Sutton Athletic in the FA Cup extra preliminary round and another competition the following week.

Dover Athletic manager Jake Leberl is managing injuries to five or six players ahead of the National League South season, including Ruben Soares-Junior, Euan Williams, George Wilkinson, Harry Beadle and John Oyenuga. The absences have given young players such as Enyinnaya Ezenwanne opportunities during pre-season, while Leberl remains concerned about squad depth and whether Dover will score enough goals after George Nikaj’s departure. The club has completed the signing of 22-year-old former Torquay and Tonbridge striker Sonny Fish, who is expected to strengthen the attack.

Margate assistant manager Matt Longhurst is anticipating the return of the Isle of Thanet Cup against local rivals Ramsgate, whose higher league status gives the fixture added significance. He expects a large crowd and a competitive match while hoping both clubs will be in the same division next season. Margate's pre-season preparations include a 2-0 win over Corinthian, although Jake McIntyre is unlikely to be risked because of a calf injury. The club has added forwards Johan Caney-Bryan and Albie O'Mara-Knapp, with Caney-Bryan needing to regain match fitness after time away following the birth of his child.

More than 2,000 supporters attended a charity-style community event at Southwood in which a Manchester United Legends side defeated a Ramsgate XI 6-2. Luke Chadwick, Wes Brown and Lee Trundle featured for the Legends, while Ben Smith and Mo Takaloo scored for Ramsgate. Goalkeeping coach Les Cleevely said the event generated valuable funds for club costs, attracted potential future supporters and showcased Ramsgate's community spirit. The club is also continuing its pre-season schedule after a 2-0 win over Sittingbourne, with a local Isle of Thanet Cup clash against Margate next.

Kent wicketkeeper Chris Benjamin has been praised by teammate Harry Finch after a strong 2026 season featuring two first-class centuries, four half-centuries and a half-century in Kent’s opening One-Day Cup win over Northamptonshire Steelbacks. Despite a subsequent defeat by Gloucestershire, Finch believes Kent’s experienced middle order can help the team recover from its disappointing T20 campaign. Kent will face Lancashire in its first competitive match at Farington, with further fixtures against Somerset, Nottinghamshire and Surrey.

Hayes won the Kent Cricket League T20 Cup after defeating Tunbridge Wells by four wickets in the final at Blackheath. Tunbridge Wells made 131-7, with Freddie Freeman and Danru Ferns contributing, but Hayes reached the target with Finnan Bryan top-scoring with 41. Hayes had earlier beaten Bexley by eight wickets, while Tunbridge Wells defeated Blackheath by 77 runs after half-centuries from Viraj Bhatia and Alex Williams.

Canterbury Rugby Club finished fifth in National League 2 East in 2025/26, securing a second consecutive top-five result. Head coach Matt Corker believes the team must improve its consistency and win more of the tight matches that currently separate it from the league’s strongest sides. He highlighted major defensive progress, with Canterbury recording the league’s third-best defence and second-best away defence. Corker also expects further development from the club’s young leadership group, while praising the contributions of the 40 players used during a season affected by injuries and the departure of stalwart Aiden Moss.

Hayes beat Blackheath by seven wickets after dismissing the hosts for 115, keeping pressure on Kent Cricket League Premier Division leaders St Lawrence & Highland Court. The leaders defeated Bromley by nine wickets, with Olly Curtiss taking 3-6 and Josh Julian making an unbeaten 52. Minster improved their survival prospects with a three-wicket win at Whitstable, while Sevenoaks Vine beat bottom side Lordswood by nine wickets. Tunbridge Wells edged Bexley by four runs in another close contest.

Kent began their Metro Bank One-Day Cup campaign with a five-wicket victory over Northamptonshire Steelbacks in Canterbury. Northamptonshire made 253 all out, with Nathan McSweeney scoring 58 and George Bartlett 54, but Grant Stewart and Ekansh Singh took three wickets each to restrict the visitors. Harry Finch led Kent’s chase with 85, while Chris Benjamin finished unbeaten on 55 as Kent reached 254-5 with 11 balls remaining. Kent’s next matches are away fixtures against Gloucestershire and Lancashire before a home game against Somerset.

A Manchester United Legends side featuring Wes Brown, Keith Gillespie, Lee Martin, Chris Eagles and Luke Chadwick is scheduled to play Jim Ward’s Ramsgate Legends XI at Southwood on Sunday, July 26. The match, arranged by Ramsgate goalkeeping coach Les Cleevely, aims to raise funds for Ramsgate FC. Tickets cost £10, with under-18s admitted free, and the Ramsgate team is expected to include former players Ian Pulman, Russell Wilson and Warren Schulz.

Darren Stevens scored 129 from 73 balls, including 12 sixes, to lead St Lawrence & Highland Court to a six-wicket win over Sevenoaks Vine while chasing 295. The 50-year-old former Kent all-rounder shared a 195-run partnership with Fred Sharp, helping keep St Lawrence unbeaten after eight league matches and seven points clear at the top of the Kent Cricket League Premier Division. Captain Matt Hammond praised Stevens’s striking and highlighted the club’s squad depth, youth prospects and strong home form ahead of Bromley’s visit. The article also reports results involving Whitstable, St Lawrence’s second team, Tenterden and Mersham Sports.

Kent aim to rebound from their T20 Blast exit with a strong One-Day Cup campaign and remain focused on earning County Championship Division 2 promotion. Head coach Adam Hollioake expects a competitive run despite minor player losses to The Hundred, expressing confidence in both the squad’s depth and the development of young talents such as Jaydn Denly and Ekansh Singh. Early fixtures include matches against Northamptonshire, Gloucestershire and Lancashire following a warm-up win over Norfolk.

Faversham Town increase pre-season intensity with three consecutive matches against Isthmian Premier sides, beginning with Dartford, offering a significant test for a squad strengthened by former Margate players. Assistant manager Frannie Collin highlights promising under‑23 contributors and the need to narrow squad numbers before the new Isthmian South East campaign, which opens after an FA Cup tie against Corinthian‑Casuals. A recent 5–2 win over Kennington provided momentum and showcased multiple goalscorers as preparations continue.

Herne Bay manager Ben Smith highlighted strong competition for the No.1 goalkeeper position as new signing Tom Wray and injured first-choice Joe Coleman vie for the role. Smith emphasised the need for consistency after last season’s struggles with multiple keeper changes. A 4-3 pre-season win over Dutch side SV Poortugaal showcased attacking promise, with goals from Joe Taylor, Jacob Lambert, Emmanuel Robe and Harrison Hatfull. Smith praised the event, part of the club’s 140th anniversary celebrations, and expressed optimism about squad depth ahead of a challenging start to the Isthmian South East season.

Matt Walker will become Sussex’s head coach from the 2027 season, replacing Paul Farbrace, who moves into a director of cricket role. Walker joins from Warwickshire and previously led Kent to multiple trophies. Farbrace said Walker was the standout candidate in a competitive hiring process. Sussex, recently promoted to Division 1 and later penalised with a points deduction for financial losses, must operate under a salary cap until 2028 and deliver a three‑year sustainability plan to the ECB. Walker and new chairman Ed Warner will work within these constraints as the club aims to compete for trophies.

St Lawrence & Highland Court defeated Sevenoaks Vine by six wickets with Darren Stevens scoring 129 and key contributions from Fred Sharp and Matt Hammond, overcoming Bradley Hope’s century for Sevenoaks. Blackheath beat Lordswood, Tunbridge Wells defeated Hayes despite a century from Will MacVicar, Bexley cruised past Minster, and Bromley chased down Whitstable’s total with Fred Wilson falling just short of a century.

Nick Warren returns to coaching at Vigo Rugby Club after recovering from a severe brain haemorrhage that left him hospitalised for eight months and initially unable to walk or talk. Despite paralysis on his right side, he aims to rebuild the recently relegated team, encouraged by their strong spirit and potential. Warren’s extensive coaching background and determination underpin plans to make the club competitive again as they prepare for the upcoming Kent 3 season.

Joe Denly will retire from professional cricket at the end of the 2026 season after a distinguished career with Kent, Middlesex and England. His achievements include multiple trophies, record partnerships, standout T20 performances and appearances in all formats for England, including the 2019 Ashes. Kent Cricket praised his long-term contribution and hopes to honour him at season’s end despite his current injury. Denly expressed gratitude to teammates, coaches, fans and family while signalling interest in remaining involved in the sport.

The upcoming Isthmian League season opens with Dartford visiting newly promoted Three Bridges under new player‑manager Ben Greenhalgh. Sittingbourne begin their Isthmian South East campaign away to AFC Croydon Athletic, while several other Kent clubs face varied early fixtures across both divisions. Holiday period schedules include a full slate of local derbies on December 28 and January 2, featuring key matchups such as Dartford vs Dulwich Hamlet, Ramsgate vs Chatham, and Whitstable vs Herne Bay.

Middlesex defeated Kent Spitfires by 14 runs in their final Vitality T20 Blast South group match after late-innings contributions from Luke Hollman and Eathan Bosch lifted the visitors to 172. Kent’s chase faltered despite Daniel Bell-Drummond’s 47 and a strong start, with crucial mid-innings dismissals of Bell-Drummond and Sam Billings halting momentum. Middlesex’s bowlers, led by Zafar Gohar, maintained control as Kent fell short in the final overs. Kent now turn to their upcoming One-Day Cup fixture against Northamptonshire Steelbacks.

Faversham Town manager Steve Watt is evaluating a promising attacking trio of Tashi-Jay Kwayie, Eniye Amgbaduba and Ibrahim Olutade following strong pre-season performances. Kwayie has scored three goals in two matches, while Amgbaduba and Olutade have also impressed as the team experiments with combinations. Goalkeeper Liam Sheriff is featuring as Tom Hadler returns from injury. The squad continues its preparations with friendlies against Hollands & Blair and Rusthall, ahead of FA Cup and FA Trophy fixtures in August.

Margate’s new signing Lewis Chambers expressed satisfaction with the team’s display in a narrow 1-0 pre-season defeat to Dover Athletic, highlighting the squad’s growing cohesion despite challenging heat and several new faces. Margate followed the match with a 4-2 win over Sutton Athletic and now prepare for upcoming friendlies against Raynes Park Vale and AFC Greenwich Borough. The team also looks ahead to an FA Cup preliminary round tie against Horsham YM or Peacehaven & Telscombe and an FA Trophy fixture at Ascot United later in August.

Deal Town manager Steve King expressed mixed feelings about early-season FA Cup and FA Trophy home draws, noting they extend the wait for the league opener but offer valuable home advantage. The team began pre-season with a 3-1 win over Faversham Strike Force, with positive performances from returning young players. Cancellations of planned friendlies led to internal training arrangements, while upcoming matches against Kennington and Bearsted aim to refine preparations ahead of competitive fixtures.

Dover Athletic manager Jake Leberl aims to evaluate several trialists during upcoming home friendlies against Cray Wanderers and Gillingham after a 1-0 pre-season win at Margate. Rolando Onu scored the match’s only goal, with Leberl highlighting the forward’s strong condition and potential for the season ahead. He stressed the importance of building a winning mentality even in pre-season and expressed confidence in the squad, which includes returning and newly signed defenders. Anticipation is growing as the club awaits the release of its league fixtures.

Folkestone Invicta manager Jay Saunders emphasises the value of maintaining strong ties with lower-league clubs as his side prepares for upcoming friendlies against Dartford and Cray Wanderers. He highlights the importance of challenging pre-season fixtures, managing player fitness, and integrating academy players and trialists. Folkestone’s recent performances, including a 5-2 win over AFC Croydon Athletic and a 3-3 draw with Sutton Common Rovers, provided opportunities for squad rotation and positive individual displays, particularly from Alejandro Machado. The team continues to assess injuries and explore potential squad additions ahead of the new season.

Maidstone District’s under-12 football team completed an outstanding season, winning the North West Kent League with the highest goal tally and strongest defensive record. They shared the AB Trophy after drawing with Medway and advanced to the National Plate Cup final, defeating several regional teams before narrowly losing to Liverpool. Players across all positions were credited for their performances, attracting attention from professional academy scouts. The squad demonstrated strong teamwork and sportsmanship while representing a range of local schools.

St Lawrence & Highland Court moved to the top of the Kent Cricket League Premier Division after defeating Blackheath by two wickets, with key contributions from Dan Stickels, John Grewar and Thomas Elworthy. Whitstable secured their third consecutive win with a dominant batting display led by Byron Gould, while Hayes stayed within reach of the league lead thanks to a century from Finnan Bryan. Tunbridge Wells earned a seven‑wicket victory over Lordswood, and Bromley produced a high‑scoring performance to beat Sevenoaks Vine despite strong innings from Ben Compton and Harry Bevan‑Thomas.

Whitstable captain Sam Denly and his son Jaydn led a 115‑run Premier Division victory over Tunbridge Wells, highlighted by Jaydn’s 110 runs and 5-23 bowling figures. Sam humorously recounted repeatedly calling Jaydn by his younger brother’s name despite their long playing history. The win followed internal discussions after a previous loss, with key contributions from several teammates. Whitstable prepare to face in‑form Bexley next as league standings tighten across divisions.

Lee Martin expresses satisfaction with Whitstable Town’s new squad as players demonstrate strong standards and leadership in pre-season training. With several new signings and some retained players, he highlights the importance of team cohesion, fan engagement, and readiness for upcoming friendlies against Maidstone United and Faversham Strike Force. The squad’s mix of experience and character is seen as a positive foundation for the upcoming season.

Faversham Town opened their pre-season with a 2-1 win over Faversham Strike Force in the Rob Beazleigh Memorial Cup, with Tashi-Jay Kwayie scoring both goals. Manager Steve Watt emphasised that results are not the priority, focusing instead on fitness, tactical development and integrating both new signings and youth prospects. Upcoming fixtures include matches against Fisher and Snodland Town as the squad builds toward the new Isthmian South East season.

Dartford manager Ben Greenhalgh highlights the significance of hosting Charlton Athletic in their opening pre-season friendly, saying the fixture demonstrates the club’s stature to new signings. Preparations include an open training session, squad building after the management team’s arrival from Margate, and integrating a trialist ahead of early pre-season matches. Greenhalgh notes improved fitness standards in modern football and emphasises the club’s focus on strong relationships with supporters and careful player management.

Herne Bay manager Ben Smith says the club’s new partnership with renewable energy firm Eleven Energy could be the most significant in its history, highlighting opportunities such as an arranged friendly with a Dutch team and potential commercial support. Smith credits club chairman Matt Barman for initiating the connection and praises the enthusiasm surrounding the collaboration. He expresses optimism about the developing squad ahead of pre-season fixtures against Rusthall and Chatham, noting strong early camaraderie and a long-term goal of earning promotion.

Deal Town will honour retiring players Kane Smith and Aaron Millbank ahead of a friendly against Ramsgate, recognising their significant contributions despite recent long-term injuries. Manager Steve King highlighted their importance on and off the pitch and confirmed a presentation of signed shirts. The club has begun pre-season early, focusing on continuity with most of last season’s squad retained, supplemented by a few new additions, trialists and youth prospects, as preparations continue for their opening match against Faversham Strike Force.

Dover Athletic manager Jake Leberl predicts improvement from returning players such as Harry Beadle and Decarrey Sheriff as the team begins pre‑season, while continuing recruitment efforts and considering potential loan options. He expects a competitive opening friendly at Margate, where new management has reshaped the squad, and aims to build momentum through a long run of home warm‑up games. The club has also retained forward Luke Baptiste as preparations intensify for the upcoming National League South season.

Jay Saunders has strengthened Folkestone Invicta’s defence by signing Jamie Fielding ahead of their first National League South campaign, following the departures of several defenders and ongoing fitness concerns in the squad. Pre-season preparations include matches against Sutton Common Rovers and AFC Croydon Athletic, with academy players also being assessed for potential inclusion. The team reports strong morale and improved readiness compared with the previous year, while home friendlies are expected to help supporters connect with new signings.

Jaydn Denly’s century and five-wicket haul powered Whitstable to a 115‑run victory over Tunbridge Wells in the Kent League Premier Division, supported by a 131‑run partnership with his father, Sam Denly. Bexley, St Lawrence & Highland Court, Blackheath and Hayes also secured wins, with notable contributions across the league including Darren Stevens’ rapid unbeaten 75 for St Lawrence and Arafat Bhuiyan’s five‑wicket haul for Blackheath.

Dartford’s under-19s secured the National League Alliance South Division title after a 5-2 win at Maidenhead United, completing a 19‑match unbeaten run. Manager Ben Greenhalgh praised the squad’s consistency, teamwork and commitment, noting the league’s strong competition from clubs like Southend and Sutton. He highlighted player development as the academy’s core goal but said learning to win is vital for progressing to senior football. The title finish sets up a promising transition for players stepping into first‑team environments and provides younger academy members with a target for the coming season.

Faversham Town strengthened their promotion push with the signing of striker Ibrahim Olutade, praised by manager Steve Watt for his work rate, positioning and goal-scoring record. Olutade joins several former Margate teammates, reinforcing squad cohesion ahead of the new season. Watt emphasised the need for multiple strong forward options and expressed confidence that recent signings, along with returning players, will boost the team’s goal output. With pre-season beginning, the club aims for a top-three finish and is focused on assembling a squad capable of achieving promotion.

Herne Bay manager Ben Smith expresses confidence that returning full-back Harrison Hatfull can further improve and strengthen the squad with his experience. He also highlights the value of new signings Joe Taylor, a prolific striker seeking the right environment to thrive, and creative playmaker Jacob Lambert, whose persistence following injury impressed him. Additional signings are expected as the club builds for the upcoming Isthmian South East campaign.

Darren Stevens reflects that leaving Kent at the end of his playing career ultimately strengthened his coaching development, enabling experience across men’s, women’s and youth cricket. Now back as Kent’s bowling consultant, he says he is focused on hands-on coaching rather than pursuing head coach roles for now. Stevens praises director of cricket Simon Cook’s leadership progression and supports new head coach Adam Hollioake, believing the team will improve after a challenging first season under him.