CANTERBURY — Kent Cricket has secured the services of a key player for the foreseeable future, announcing that popular all-rounder Grant Stewart has signed a new two-year contract extension that will keep him at the Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence until the end of the 2027 season.
The new deal represents a significant show of faith in the 30-year-old, whose dynamic contributions with both bat and ball have made him a fan favourite and a crucial component of the squad across all formats. Stewart, who joined Kent from Middlesex in 2017, has developed into a genuine match-winner, capable of changing the game's momentum in a matter of overs.
A Pillar of Kent's White-Ball Success
Since his arrival in Canterbury, Stewart has been instrumental in Kent's limited-overs campaigns. His powerful hitting in the middle-to-late order and his knack for taking crucial wickets have been invaluable assets. He was a key figure in the team that reached back-to-back Vitality Blast Finals Days in 2022 and 2023, often delivering under immense pressure. His ability to bowl during any phase of the innings, particularly his effective use of variations at the death, makes him a captain's dream in the T20 format.
In a statement released by the club, Director of Cricket, Simon Cook, expressed his delight at securing Stewart's signature for the long term. He said, "Grant has become an integral part of our squad and a player who embodies the fighting spirit we want at Kent. His all-round skill set is a huge asset, and his commitment and professionalism are exemplary. Securing his future here was a priority for us."
Overcoming Adversity and Looking Ahead
The new contract is also a testament to Stewart's resilience. The 2024 season was significantly disrupted for the all-rounder due to a frustrating side strain injury sustained in May, which sidelined him for a large portion of the summer. Despite this setback, the club's leadership has shown unwavering belief in his ability to return stronger and continue to be a driving force for the team. His rehabilitation has been progressing well, and he is expected to be a full participant in pre-season preparations.
Upon signing his new deal, Stewart spoke of his affection for the club and his ambitions for the coming years. He stated, "Kent feels like home. I’ve loved every minute of my time here since I joined, and I’m thrilled to have extended my stay. We’ve built something special in the dressing room, and I’m desperate to help bring some more silverware to this club. The support from the members and fans has been incredible, and I can’t wait to get back out there at The Spitfire Ground."
Versatility and Impact Across All Formats
While his white-ball exploits often grab the headlines, Stewart has also proven his worth in the first-class arena. A bustling, aggressive seam bowler and a destructive lower-order batsman, he provides balance to the Kent side in the County Championship. His first-class batting average of over 25 and bowling average in the low 30s underscore his genuine all-round value. Memorable performances include a blistering 62-ball century against Glamorgan in the One-Day Cup and a match-winning five-wicket haul in the Championship.
His value to the squad is multifaceted and extends beyond just statistics. Key attributes that make Stewart such a prized asset for Kent include:
• Power-Hitting Prowess: Capable of clearing the ropes with ease, providing a explosive finish to an innings.
• Nerve Under Pressure: A proven performer in high-stakes knockout matches, both with bat and ball.
• Bowling Versatility: Can bowl with the new ball, through the middle, or execute precise yorkers at the death.
• Team-first Mentality: Widely respected in the dressing room for his positive attitude and unwavering commitment to the team cause.
A Cornerstone of the Club's Future
This contract extension is a clear signal of intent from Kent. In an era where talented English all-rounders are highly sought after, securing a player of Stewart's calibre provides stability and firepower. He joins a core group of players, including captain Sam Billings, Daniel Bell-Drummond, and Joey Evison, who are seen as the foundation upon which the club's future successes will be built. The management sees him as a leader within the group, whose experience will be vital in nurturing the next generation of Kent cricketers.
Simon Cook further elaborated on the strategic importance of the deal, adding, "In a competitive market, retaining your best players is crucial. Grant is exactly the type of character and player we want to build our team around. He has overcome challenges before and we have every confidence he will return from his injury with the same determination and quality that has made him such an important player for us."
Conclusion: A Win for Club and County
For Grant Stewart, the new contract is a reward for years of consistent performance and a show of faith following an injury-disrupted season. For Kent Cricket, it is a strategic move that solidifies a key position and maintains squad cohesion. As the club continues its pursuit of trophies across all competitions, having a fit and firing Grant Stewart at their disposal will be a significant boost. The Canterbury faithful will undoubtedly be eager to see their beloved all-rounder back in action, turning games and entertaining crowds for years to come.