Kent will field a strong side in their final pre-season game against Loughborough UCCE which starts at Canterbury on Saturday.

The only definite absentee will be Robbie Joseph (pictured), still recovering from a shoulder operation, while the county may also rest one of two other front line seamers ahead of the opening LV= County Championship 1 match of the season against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge next Thursday.

New signing Scotland international Dewald Nel looks set to play but team director Paul Farbrace said: "The Loughborough game is a massive opportunity for one or two of the fringe bowlers to stake their claims for a place next week.

"Robbie isn’t ready to play and we don’t want to rush him. It’s a long season and we want him fit and strong and firing on all cylinders. Batting wise, our top six is settled and they will all play."

Farbrace praised the work of head groundsman Andy Peirson and his team who have battled against the weather which washed out the planned friendly against Notts last week.

He said: "The groundstaff have done a brilliant job and the wickets are looking good. The outfield is soft but not in terrible condition and we have had some excellent practice wickets as well."

The St Lawrence wicket was flooded last week forcing the county to switch their practice match against Nottinghamshire.

Kent are offering free admission for the three-day Loughborough game, play starting at 11am each day.