Kent County Cricket Club have announced that vice-captain Joe Denly has been awarded a Testimonial Year in 2019.

The 32-year-old right-handed batsman made his Kent debut in 2004 before being awarded his county cap in 2008,  becoming the first Canterbury-born cricketer to be capped by the club.

Denly, who has played nine ODIs and two T20s for England and has just been selected in the Test squad for the series in Sri Lanka in November, said:  “It is a huge honour to be awarded a testimonial at my home club.

“It all started at Kent when I was 11 years old. I progressed onto the first intake of the academy at 16 and was awarded my first pro contract at 17. The dream had come true!

“Putting the shirt on week in week out nowadays is never taken for granted and I know one day when it’s all over I will be very proud to have been able to do it so many times. That day is still a long way off mind you and I feel my best years are still ahead of me.

“I am also very excited to be supporting the Lords Taverners and PCA Benevolent Fund as my chosen charities.

“Thank you in advance to all that may support me over 2019 and to everyone that has supported me and the club throughout my career.

“Thank you to Kent County Cricket Club for awarding me the testimonial.

“Here’s to a successful end to this season and an even better 2019.”

Paul Downton,  Director of Cricket at Kent said: “Joe Denly  is an outstanding cricketer and ambassador for Kent Cricket.

“I am delighted the Club has awarded Joe a hugely deserved Testimonial Year. We wish him every success.”

For information on  Joe’s Testimonial please visit his website or contact Heidi on 07703660059 or [email protected]