Mahmood has been a key part of Kent's one day success

Two of Kent's key players are struggling with injuries as the battle to win their first County Championship in 30 years reaches its climax.

All rounders Yasir Arafat and Azhar Mahmood have not played since the Friends Provident Trophy final loss to Essex on 16 August.

Captain Rob Key told BBC Radio Kent: "We've sent them both off for scans.

"Hopefully it's nothing serious, rather than rush them back we're trying to ease them back so that they're ready."

Arafat is struggling with a side strain and has a small muscle tear, while Mahmood has a problem with his knee.

The pair have played a key role in Kent's successes so far this year, especially in the one-day game.

Key is aiming to ease the two back in slowly rather than risk further injuries in the county's fight to win both the County Championship and Division Two of the Pro40 league.