CENTURIES from second wicket partners Ed Smith and Rob Key and an unbeaten 86 from player-of-the season Matthew Walker helped extend Kent’s first innings lead over Middlesex to 238 going into the third day of four.

The partnership of 255 in 49 overs between Smith and Key was the pick of the day as Kent moved 8-3 ahead on bonus points and ever nearer securing second spot in the division.

Key was first to reach three figures, spanking 11 fours and three sixes in his 126-ball hundred, the ninth he has scored this summer.

Smith joined him on the landmark soon afterwards with a steered four to third man off Melvyn Betts.

It was Smith’s fourth ton of the season and came from 128 balls and with 15 fours.

The stand finally came to an end when Key, on 131, top-edged a sweep off Paul Weekes into the hands of Melvyn Betts at deep mid-wicket to make it 273 for two.

Alex Loudon scored eight before his attempted drive against off-spinner Jamie Dalrymple onto his own leg stump, but Smith combined with Walker 86 (not out) to add 155 for the fourth wicket.

Smith, playing with freedom and no little style, hit 189 from 257 ball before he fell leg before to Melvyn Betts when trying to drive.

Niall O’Brien (2) and Min Patel (5) perished thereafter, but Kent remain in good shape to collect the £50,000 cheque as championship runner’s-up.