Jason Benn praised Harry Furze after the bowler’s impressive spell helped Bexley seal a six-wicket win over Dartford on Saturday.
Young seamer Furze took four wickets for 20 runs as Dartford were bowled out for 153 at Manor Way.
Despite persistent showers causing delays, Bexley clinched victory with four wickets remaining as Christopher Laas finished on 50 not out.
Skipper Benn says Furze, who bowled three maidens in his 10-over spell, has developed into a match-winner for Bexley.
He said: “I’ve been extremely impressed with Harry.
“He’s played first-team cricket for a couple of years and I told him at the start of the season that he can make a difference this summer.
“I wanted him to know he wasn’t a support player but a potential match-winner.
“He’s proved that with his performances this season – he has come on leaps and bounds and is turning into a really good cricketer.”
The victory was Bexley’s fourth in the Kent Premier League this season and saw them climb to fourth in the table.
With only one other game being played in the top-flight, Benn said the triumph puts his side in a healthy position ahead of a tough match against Tenterden.
He added: “It was a crucial win considering the situation with the rest of the games in the league.
“It puts us in a really healthy position and a strong position.
“We fielded really well, especially in the first 20 overs. To restrict them to 150 was a good effort and then we handled the chase well.
“Both teams were pretty anxious with the weather and it was a tricky decision for the umpires but obviously we were delighted to get over the line.”
Recently-promoted Tenterden have been the surprise package so far this season and currently trail leaders Hartley by just six points.
Benn acknowledged the Kent-based club will provide his side with a stern challenge.
“It will be a tough game,” the Bexley captain said.
“They’re playing good cricket and have some good cricketers.
“But so do we and the league shows that anyone can beat anyone on their day. We just need to go out there and cover all areas and perform as we have been.”
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