by Alex Hoad

Spinner Adam Riley hopes his bright start to 2013 will push him towards a more regular place in the Kent side.

Riley, who turned 21 last month, emerged onto the scene in 2011 but has found first-team opportunities limited due to the presence of England spinner James Tredwell.

However, with the Kent captain away in New Zealand for the opening warm-up games at Hampshire last week, Riley staked his claim for a place with seven wickets over two days.

Riley (pictured) spun his way to 5-26 as Kent beat Hampshire in a 40-over warm-up game on Friday having claimed two more victims the previous day in a red-ball game which ended in a draw.

Riley said: "I was pleased. It was a bit surprising at this time of the year but the pitch turned a bit.

"It’s a good start for me. With Treddy at the club, I don’t get too many opportunities to be the main spinner, so when he’s away, I need to make the most of the chances when they come along.

"I’m not going to get too carried away, I know Treddy is the first-choice spinner and the fact is, he’s England’s No.2 spinner really with Graeme Swann injured.

"It’s good competition for me plus he’s a good bloke to talk to and learn from.

"All I can do is hope that I get a go and when I do, try my best to impress. Hopefully, I’ve shown I am in good nick."

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