James Tredwell says the Kent players need to make the most of the three-day warm-up clash with Cardiff MCCU to ensure they are ready to hit the ground running next week.

The universities match, which starts on Wednesday, is the last opportunity for the squad to get time in the middle before the LV= Championship Division 2 opener at Leicestershire on Wednesday, April 17.

Tredwell (pictured) said: “It’s our last real bit of time during the Cardiff game to hone skills and get prepared.

“It’s all pretty fluid in terms of selection at the moment. I guess we’ll try and get close to the team for the Championship opener this week but there’s always little niggles flying around so there may always be opportunities for others.

“If we can though we’d like to give those boys likely to start at Leicester the best chance to prepare and as much time out there before as we can.”

Tredwell returned from England duty to lead a team meeting at the St Lawrence Ground and he said: “We’re all keen to get going. The weather has put dampeners on it and pre-season has been a bit disjointed as a result, and with me being away, but I am keen to get my teeth into the role.

“I wanted to sit down with them as I’ve not been around since getting the role and get a few of my thoughts out there, how I see the team going forward.

“I don’t see it changing a great deal. I don’t want to change too much too quick and disrupt everything. I want everyone to have their voice in the squad. “