By Andrew Gidley

Matt Coles, the latest Kent player to agree a contract extension, has spoken of the benefits he hopes to have gained from his stay in Australia.

The 20-year-old from Maidstone has been in Perth since last October as part of an ECB scholarship programme, based at the Paul Terry Academy, working with former Australian Test star Bruce Reid and playing grade cricket for the local club.

The promising all-rounder, who signed a three-year deal with Kent, said: "Last season was a good one for me, and I am hoping I can follow it up this summer. I grew up in Kent, and want to do the best I can for the county, and hope to play for them for many years to come.

"I have loved every single moment out here, and appreciate all the efforts Kent have made to get me here."

Coles (pictured) returns home from Australia next month, a week before Kent start pre-season training on March 14, and knows he will be a lot fitter after the trip.

He said: "All our training is done in 40 degree heat during the middle of the day. It’s really good for the body, but makes you feel pretty low for a week, and the legs feel shot."