SOMERSET batsman Eddie Byrom joins Tom Banton and Steve in agreeing a new contract with the club.

The 22-year-old’s current contract was due to expire this winter, but he has now committed himself to Somerset CCC for at least the next two seasons.

Byrom, who graduated from the Somerset Academy in 2016, made his debut at Hampshire in the 2017 County Championship and since then he has played in 21 First Class games, scoring more than 1,100 runs (best of 152).

He made his first T20 Blast appearance for Somerset this season, making an immediate impact by scoring 54 not out from just 19 balls against Surrey at Taunton.

He went on to feature in a further eight matches in the competition, scoring over 180 runs at a strike rate of 196.80.

After signing his new contract, the left-hander said: “This is an incredible place to be at the moment.

“The club is pushing for trophies and the environment is so good.

“This club has been my home for the last few years and I’m delighted to continue that for another two years.

“The group of players we have here is second to none and I’m looking forward to seeing what the next two years hold.

“The support that we get is genuine and heartfelt and that means a lot to us.

“To play for Somerset and to see how many people support us every week is incredible.”

Director of cricket Andy Hurry said: “We are extremely pleased that our young players are committing their futures to Somerset because it bodes well for the future.

“Eddie has the potential to excel in all formats of the game and his performances in the Vitality Blast this year showed that he has developed, evolved and adapted his game impressively over the last 12 months.

“He has a great work ethic and is always looking to learn and improve.

“Although relatively young, he has a good amount of experience to build on as he looks to cement his position as a 1st XI regular across all formats.”

Today has also seen three Somerset youngsters - Kasey Aldridge, Lewis Goldsworthy and Sam Young - named in a 16-strong England Under-19 squad for the tour to the Caribbean in November and December.

The Young Lions will play in a 50-over tri-series against West Indies U19s and Sri Lanka U19s.