SOMERSET all-rounder Craig Overton has described being named in the England Lions squad for next year’s tour of South Africa as “a massive boost.”

Overton has been included in both 14-man squads for two four-day matches and five 50-over matches against South Africa ‘A’ – and the 20-year-old believes he has come a long way since an injury-ravaged 2013 campaign.

He said: “I feel that this is quite an achievement for me especially after 2013 when I was out after suffering a stress fracture.

“All I wanted to do this summer was get back in the team so to be selected to go to South Africa is a massive boost for me and something I wasn’t really expecting quite so soon.”

Overton had a hugely impressive 2014 season in all formats of the game, scoring 431 runs at an average of 33.15, with a top score of 99 and taking 40 wickets at 29.53, with a best of 5 for 63.

Somerset Director of Cricket Matt Maynard said: “I am delighted that Craig has been selected for his second Lions tour and he thoroughly deserves it.”

“Craig is one of several very talented young players we have on the staff at Somerset and his selection is a just reward for all of the hard work that he has put in.”

The Lions tour runs from January 2, 2015 until February 2 - but prior to Christmas the young all rounder will be spending time at Loughborough before heading out to Potchefstroom in South Africa for a four weeks ECB training camp.