Patel to open batting for Notts as Hussey returns

Patel has scored 128 Championship runs in nine innings

Nottinghamshire have promoted England batsman Samit Patel to open their innings against Kent, despite a poor run of form this season.

Patel, who has been batting in the middle order and is averaging only 14 this season, replaces opener Neil Edwards.

Director of cricket Mick Newell said: "Samit's not got enough at four or five, but it's not a risk.

"Our average opening partnership has been pretty poor this season anyway."

Notts have struggled to find the right combination to open the batting, despite their position at the top of the County Championship table.

This will be the third pair that have been used in seven matches.

Speaking top BBC Radio Nottingham, Newell added: "It's an opportunity for Samit, and it's probably a temporary break for Neil Edwards as I'm sure he'll be back in the team soon."

The match at Tunbridge Wells will also see the first appearance of the season for Trent Bridge favourite David Hussey, who returns from his honeymoon.

"The last month has been pretty hectic with the World Cup - where sadly the good guys lost to the bad guys in the final," joked Hussey.

"I also got married on 23 May, but now I'm looking forward to playing some cricket here at Trent Bridge."