KENT enjoyed a fantastic first morning at a sunny Rose Bowl where they did their LV Championship survival hopes the world of good in reaching 127 for one come lunch on this opening day of four.

Skipper Rob Key, having won the toss and elected to bat, led from the front with an unbeaten 66 as he continues his excellent run of form in all forms of cricket.

Key featured in a bright opening stand worth 122 in 33 overs with Joe Denly, who reached his first championship half-century since late July from 85 balls and with 10 fours.

Soon afterwards the 21-year-old right-hander was beaten in the flight by Shane Warne to be stumped by Nic Pothas after dragging his back foot.

Key appeared to receive one let off with his score on 36, having seemingly edged the first ball of the match from debutant David Balcombe - a very full away swinger - to Chris Benham at third slip.

Key stood his ground believing the ball had gone from bat to ground to bounce into Benham's hands and was given the benefit of the doubt after umpires George Sharp and Roy Palmer consulted at mid-wicket.

He went on to reach 50 from 58 balls and with seven fours as he and Martin van Jaarsveld (2) made it through to the interval without further alarm.

Earlier, Kent made one change to their side bringing back Ryan McLaren in place of Alex Blake after McLaren passed a fitness test on his fractured right thumb.

Scorecards
Kent first innings
J L Denly st Pothas b Warne 54
R W T Key not out 66
M van Jaarsveld not out 2
Extras 5

Total 127 for one after 36 overs

Fall of wicket: 1-122.