Matt Walker held Kent together on the opening day against Lancashire with an unbeaten 139 to frustrate the title challengers. However, of more serious concern will have been the sight of Muttiah Muralitharan leaving the field mid-way through his 34th over clutching his right shoulder, although he return shortly before the close.
Muralitharan had claimed two wickets as Kent struggled to 236 for 7 after being asked to bat. But Walker found solid support from Simon Cook as the pair added 84 for the eighth wicket during the final session. Walker's century was his second of season and contained 20 fours and a six.
Kent's innings needing stablising when he came in after Glen Chapple removed Joe Denly and Martin van Jaarsveld in two balls. Robert Key then edged Oliver Newby into the slips as the home side tottered on 50 for 3.
Neil Dexter supported Walker in a fourth-wicket stand of 123 until Dominic Cork claimed his only wicket. With Muralitharan causing problems Lancashire would have had visions of batting by the end of the day, but Walker had other ideas.
