Our X-factor: Milnes hails Hasan

Bangladesh pacer Hasan Mahmud continued his impressive county run with a four-wicket haul for Kent against Worcestershire, earning high praise from teammate Matt Milnes, who labelled him the team’s “X-factor”.

Hasan claimed 4-68 as Kent dismissed Worcestershire for 217 in their first innings in the County Championship at Canterbury on Friday.

The 26-year-old had already taken 12 wickets in two matches during his initial county stint and further underlined his credentials with another incisive spell.

“Hasan definitely adds something special to our bowling attack. He can bowl at a good pace, and his bowling action is also slightly different, which makes it difficult for batters to pick him,” Milnes said after the second day’s play on Friday.

“Hasan is a fantastic bowler and adds that X-factor to our attack. We are really fortunate to have him in the team,” he added.

Hasan’s four wickets, backed by a disciplined effort from Kent’s attack, helped restrict Worcestershire to 217.

Kent had earlier made 238 in their first innings to secure a 21-run lead.

At the latest stage of the match, Worcestershire were 332 runs behind with three wickets in hand as the third day continued.