Paul Farbace says relegation dented the pride of everyone in the Kent squad last season, but believes there is a "steely determination" to put things right this summer.

With outdoor nets now less than a month away team director Farbrace said: "We have to be realistic about what this season brings, and all we can ask for is hard work and endeavour, and people busting their gut for the club.

"If everyone does that the supporters and membership will appreciate that."

He added: "Pre-season started for us back in January, and our sessions every Tuesday have been outstanding.

"There is no doubt it is going to be very tough, with a small squad and no overseas player, and so we need to be very good at everything."

Farbrace hinted that the county were close to confirming Alex Blake had agreed a new three-year contract, joining Matt Coles in committing himself to the county.

Coles claimed a five-wicket haul, including a hat-trick for Perth Cricket Club this week, while Farbrace and physio Nimmo Reid are monitoring the fitness and workload of Robbie Joseph, who has joined him in Western Australia.

Farbrace added: "If Robbie is fit it will be like a new signing for us."