Hockley returns to Kent ranks

Batsman James Hockley was at his best for Kent in the limited-overs game

Kent have re-signed batsman James Hockley seven years after they released him from his previous county contract.

The 29-year-old played for the club between 1998 and 2002 but his appearances were limited due to an established batting unit.

A young Hockley scored 1,329 one-day runs, including a century and six fifties, but struggled in the first-class game with just one half-century in 30 innings. An outstanding fielder, he also bowled occasional off-spin.

Since 2002 he has combined a teaching career with club cricket in Kent. Last summer he helped Hartley CC win the Kent Premier League during their first season in the division.

Playing alongside former England and Kent left-arm spinner Min Patel, he scored 583 runs at an average of 48 with a strike-rate of 82.

Kent captain Rob Key said: “James is a very talented cricketer.

"He has produced outstanding performances in the Kent League in the last two years and thoroughly deserves another chance to play first-class cricket. I am sure he will make the most of this opportunity.”