Crawley's slump continues as Kent finally find some runs in 2026

Kent break their low-scoring streak with a solid 352 against Worcestershire while Zak Crawley's struggles persist with another dismissal.

Pizza theory returns Reports suggest Pentagon-linked pizzerias see spikes in orders before major events. A record 21 pizzas were delivered before the Gulf War kickoff, and a similar surge came ahead of Bill Clinton's impeachment hearings. Local eateries now monitor queues and orders for unusual patterns. When these rises occur, it often signals something significant—and usually unwelcome—is on the horizon. ## Crawley's viewing surge Zak Crawley’s struggles are drawing as much attention as his potential replacements. The number of unique viewers per ball faced would likely show Crawley as the most-watched domestic opener. His recent form has kept him in the spotlight, especially after the England and Wales Cricket Board chose continuity over change following a tough Ashes winter. Each of his innings now invites close scrutiny as he fights to keep his spot. ## Another near miss for Crawley Crawley’s 44 against Derbyshire marked his highest score in seven innings, raising his first-class average to 23.14. His dismissal came in brutal fashion—playing across a straight delivery from Martin Andersson. It was another technical flaw, one noted by keen observers but still unresolved. His wait for a first-class century now stretches to 14 matches since last May’s 124 against Zimbabwe. ## Social media silence for Kent Kent have taken drastic steps to shield players from harsh criticism. Adam Hollioake, Simon Cook, and Daniel Bell-Drummond decided to disable comments on all social media posts after their innings defeat to Worcestershire. The move followed what the club deemed disproportionate backlash after three unconvincing results to open the season. ## Bell-Drummond’s breakthrough Bell-Drummond’s unbeaten 129, featuring 24 boundaries and a bold uppercut six, anchored Kent’s 352 on Friday. It was their highest total yet, following four instances of being bowled out for under 250. The innings delivered their first batting points of the year and was met with cheers from 1,200 fans at the St Lawrence Ground. His hundred came off 110 deliveries, prompting Hollioake to celebrate with a punch of the air. ## Bell-Drummond on his fight Bell-Drummond admitted his season had been tough, starting with a duck and failing to go past 37 in six attempts. He acknowledged the pressure from leadership to stay focused on cricket amid the early struggles. Despite a helpful pitch, every over held a potential wicket, forcing him to grind hard. He described the century as cathartic, though he admitted not fully grasping its meaning. ## Team morale and future outlook A members’ forum with Cook and chief executive Michael Wilshaw drew less tension than expected. The decision to ignore social media was widely supported, though the club knows good form today won’t last forever. Kent’s next match features a flattening pitch, a factor Wayne Madsen considered when choosing to bowl first. Bell-Drummond remains hopeful, noting May is early and confidence in the team runs deep.