Neil Saker is delighted to get a second opportunity in county cricket – and is determined to make the most of it.

The 26-year-old seam bowler, released by Surrey in 2008, linked up with Kent during pre-season and got his chance against Northamptonshire last week due to the county’s injury crisis.

He claimed 3-111 in Kent’s defeat and had the chance to better that return after he was included for the side’s championship game at Glamorgan this week.

Saker (pictured) has won his own injury battle after recovering from tendonitis and bone spurs in both knees which needed surgery in September 2009 and left him fearing he would never play again.

He said: "I loved it last week because it’s something I wasn’t certain would happen again.

"To be in the field for 130 overs, bowling and running around feeling no pain was great. Pre-season went well and I was disappointed not to play in the opening game against Essex but I worked hard, kept going and the opportunity came.

"I am just taking it game by game and there have been no discussions about what happens long-term. Paul Farbrace and Rob Key have been fantastic and all the other guys have made me feel welcome."

Supporters have been criticial following the club’s poor start but Saker’s message was positive. He said: "Sit tight because there are some talented young players who will go a long way in the game."