DEREK KENWAY knows all about Kent batsman Rob Key - but he struggles to think of a weakness in his England Academy colleague's game.

Opening batsman Key smashed a first innings 160 before being run out in the first match at Canterbury a fortnight ago.

Kenway said: "I know Rob Key very well. He's a very talented cricketer and he hasn't got any weaknesses as such, but we'll have a chat beforehand and discuss where we should bowl to all the Kent batsmen.

"Rob's career didn't start so well, but he played very well last year and nobody doubts his talent.

"He's a fantastic timer of the ball so it will be good to get him out nice and early. He doesn't miss out if you bowl badly to him so what we need to do is tie him up and make him work hard for his runs and really put pressure on him."

Kenway held on to a slip catch to give Alan Mullally Key's wicket in the second innings at Canterbury.

"We'll have a bit of friendly banter about things that went on during the winter," added Kenway.

"We always give each other a bit of stick and we get on pretty well, so I'm looking forward to a good little tussle.

"I'm never a quiet person on the pitch but it always stays friendly, it's good to have a bit of a giggle out in the middle, it's good fun."

Chris Tremlett, another Academy man, ran Key out for one when Kent played their first game at the Rose Bowl in the Benson and Hedges Cup last week.

"Rob didn't really get a feel for the wicket in the B&H game and that could work in our favour," added Kenway.

"They hadn't played here before then and hopefully that will give us the advantage. We always seem to have good games against them.

"They've started this year well but I think they'll find it a bit harder to bat here than on their wicket, which is extremely flat, and hopefully we'll capitalise on that.

"There's a bit more in it for the bowlers at the Rose Bowl but if you work hard as a batsman there are runs to be had as well.

"It was a really good wicket against Middlesex and John Crawley showed that it's easy to score on if you get in."

Kenway has only scored 37 runs in three championship innings so far this season but was in improved form in the Benson & Hedges Cup.

He added: "I missed out on the run feast at Kent but hopefully I'll make up for that here.

"I'm middling the ball well and feel really good at the moment."