Keith Dudgeon will be back in Canterbury next April after agreeing to fill one of Kent’s overseas slots for the whole of the 2026 summer.
The 29-year-old South African seamer, who managed just a single County Championship outing this year before a knee injury struck, is expected to play red- and white-ball cricket right through the campaign.
Dudgeon’s short Kent debut was memorable. Playing at Northamptonshire’s Wantage Road in April, he collected career-best figures of 7 for 36 and finished the match with eight wickets. A torn meniscus ended the stint almost as soon as it had started, but both player and club have kept the door open.
“It’s a huge case of unfinished business for me, and I’m sure it seems that way for the Kent fans – I’m so pleased to be a Kent player again for the whole of next season,” Dudgeon said.
“Everyone at the club made me feel so welcome in my short time in Canterbury and I have been avidly watching the lads as much as I can from South Africa as I continue to work hard to get back to full fitness. I wish them all the very best for the rest of this year.
“I’m looking forward to making more appearances for Kent next summer – including my home debut.
“I’d like to thank Adam, Simon and the board at Kent for putting their faith in me coming back for 2026.”
Kent’s director of cricket, Simon Cook, echoed the enthusiasm. “Keith made a lasting impression on us during his short but sweet time earlier in this season,” he said. “He is progressing well in his rehab work after successful knee surgery, and is due to start playing again before Christmas for his domestic side in South Africa, Boland. We’re all looking forward to welcoming [him] back to the group for the whole of 2026.”
Results on the field emphasise why Kent want extra bowling firepower. After two early Championship wins, they sit bottom of Division Two following three draws and four defeats. T20 form has been steadier – four wins, five losses – yet a late push is needed to reach the knockout phase.
Dudgeon’s return will not fix everything, but a fit right-armer capable of seven-wicket hauls gives Kent a clearer plan for next summer.
