Somerset youngster Kasey Aldridge signs two-year contract

The 18-year-old fast bowler has agreed a two-year deal, a year after joining the Somerset Academy. He had previously spent two years on the county’s Potential Player Programme

Somerset seamer Kasey Aldridge has signed his first contract with the county.

The 18-year-old fast bowler has agreed a two-year deal, a year after joining the Somerset Academy. He had previously spent two years on the county’s Potential Player Programme.

Aldridge, who was schooled at Millfield, has played for England Under-19 this summer against both India and Bangladesh. In that tri-series, he took regular wickets, while he also struck an unbeaten 58 in one game against Bangladesh.

Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry said of the teenager: "Kasey is a real talent. He’s tall, he bowls with genuine pace and is capable of generating lateral movement in the air and off the pitch.

"The way he handled the step up from the academy to the second XI has also been very impressive. He also took the pressure of international cricket in his stride and his performances for the England Under-19s this summer would have provided him another level of experience.

"We all hope that he can continue on his current path and turn the outstanding potential he has shown into performances for the first XI when given the opportunity."

Aldridge added: "It’s an unbelievable feeling to sign a contract for the club. It’s a bit of a cliché but it really is a dream come true.

"I feel really fortunate to have been given this opportunity, and it gives me some confidence to know that all the hard work that myself and all of the coaches have put in has been rewarded."