Kent chief executive Jamie Clifford claims the club’s focus has shifted from stability off the field to success on it.

In the week the club’s encouraging financial results were revealed, Mr Clifford insisted the club had never lacked ambition but hopes the acquisition of two overseas stars this summer ensures 2016 will be a memorable year for the club.

Mr Clifford described Kagiso Rabada and Tom Latham as ‘emerging young international players who are incredibly hungry for success.’

He added: “In 2015 we went through the season without an overseas player - there were a number of reasons, it wasn’t just a financial decision. Clearly, overseas players require extra resource to bring in but we wanted to back our group of emerging players.

“Getting knocked out in two white-ball quarter-finals was hard to take. (This year) we hoped to add a bit more to our resources to get us over the line in those competitions and be as competitive as possible in the County Championship.”

He added: “We are ambitious. The club craves on-field success and a vibrant business. The focus has shifted a bit away from off-field activities to on-field activities.

“There hasn’t been a lack of ambition over the past six years. A lot of things are just coming together - we’re in a good place. A young group of players, exciting overseas signings, good facilities and an excited fanbase – it should be a memorable season.”

Mr Clifford also paid tribute to Kent’s fans, claiming: “The members and supporters have played a part in the financial turnaround.

“People are being incredibly loyal to the club. We are fortunate to have them. Everybody craves on-field success. We hope we have started to put the ingredients together which will bring that.”

He added: “Our membership figures are up on last year and given that there isn’t an Australian game or a tourist game at all, that is a good indicator that people consider this a good place to spend their leisure time.”