By Mark Stokes

Sam Northeast believes he is on the brink of signing a deal to keep him as a Kent player.

The 21-year-old-batsman (pictured) is one of eight players out of contract at the end of this season but has done his cause no harm at all by making half-centuries in both CB40 wins this week.

It is believed the offer on the table is for one year, and Northeast, speaking after his 57 against Middlesex Panthers on Tuesday, hinted that he is keen to sign.

He explained: “Kent have been very supportive and have said they want me to stay which is great. We’re hoping that before the end of the season, something can be arranged.

“They’ve shown a lot of support, and as long as I feel my game is going forward, and that the environment is the right one for me to keep succeeding and for my career to go forward then of course I’m going to stay.”

Northeast’s half-century against the Panthers came after an unbeaten 58 against The Netherlands on Sunday and in both games he shared key partnerships with Darren Stevens.

He explained: “Stevo hits the ball over the boundaries and I hit the ones and twos really and we enjoy batting together - there’s a nice calmness at the crease. We always thought (against Middlesex) that if we could keep the runs ticking over in fives and sixes (an over) then we could have big go at the end.

“Bally and Wahab came in and hit some really important strikes which helped and I rode my luck, but I try to keep the crowd on their toes as much as possible and keep the entertainment flowing!”

Northeast admitted he is pleased with his one-day form this season, but knows there is room for improvement.

He added: “I am not renowned for hitting the ball over the boundary so I’ve got to do things my own way. There’s still a lot to learn about finishing games off and the more I do it and the more I will get better.

"With big stroke makers around me I can afford to play the way I do but when those guys have gone I have to think where I can score my boundaries.

"I want to kick on and score hundreds and when you look at Ben Stokes (Durham and England Lions) that’s the benchmark for people my age.”