Darren Stevens creates history by scoring a ton: Details here
A number of batsmen keep creating records in cricket every now and then. However, it is a special feat for the youngest cricketer to come up with a record early on in the career. Meanwhile, there have been instances when the oldest cricketer, too, has created a record, as has been the case here. 43-year-old county cricketer Darren Stevens has made a First-Class record.
Stevens becomes oldest cricketer to hit First-Class double hundred
On Monday, Stevens, playing for Kent, scored 237 runs against Yorkshire during the ongoing County Championship. In the process, he has become the oldest cricketer to hit a double hundred in First-Class cricket, since Walter Keeton, who did the same in 1949. Stevens' innings included 28 boundaries and nine sixes, while his 237 came relatively quicker, off 225 deliveries.
Stevens rescued Yorkshire with his innings and glorious 346-run stand
Stevens came on to bat in a tough situation as Kent were reeling at 39/5. It was he, who then ensured a dominating 346-run stand with England international Sam Billings, as he scored his double hundred in the process, before being dismissed by Ajaz Patel. While Billings remained unbeaten on 138, it was the highest partnership in the Championship this season.
Who is Stevens?
Stevens is an English cricketer who mainly plays as an all-rounder. While he initially made his debut for Leicestershire in 1997, he moved to Kent in 2005. Although he has never played for England, he was among the probable 30 for England's 2011 ICC World Cup squad. To date, he has played 301 First-Class matches, scoring 15,358 runs, including 33 centuries and 79 half-centuries.
Kent might consider retaining Stevens for next season
It was previously reported that Stevens was set to leave Kent following the end of the season. However, after his knock on Monday, Kent might be compelled to change their minds. "We are allowed to change our minds and we want to reward performance and at the moment Darren's performances are right up there," said Kent head coach, Matt Walker, to BBC Radio Kent.
Kent director to discuss future with Stevens
"Obviously, such performances cannot go unnoticed. We'll be sitting down after this match to discuss his future. We would be foolish to ignore his recent form," said club director Paul Downton to the club's website.
Stevens has no plans to quit as of now
Speaking on his future, Stevens said that he has no plans to hang up his boots yet, as he's confident that his body is fit. "I have had a tough couple of years with the bat, and the pitches haven't helped. To get a couple of scores in the past couple of weeks, I feel in a good place at the minute," said Stevens.
