ROB KEY has become the first Kent batsman to top the national first-class batting averages in almost 40 years.

Key, who amassed 1,897 runs at an average of 79, matches the feat of Colin Cowdrey in 1965, when he scored 1,230 runs at an average of 64.73.

It has been a highly successful year for Key, who was also the first batsman to reach 1,000 first-class runs and made himself a regular in England's top order with some fine international performances.

Meanwhile, next month's forum with chairman of cricket Graham Johnson and coach Simon Willis has sold out. The event, which is being held from 7pm on October 12, is being restricted to an attendance of 175 because of safety regulations in the Cornwallis Room.

* The Kent Club shop, The 11th Wicket, is holding an end of season sale of replica training kit with prices slashed by up to 20 per cent on some lines.