JT Langridge has signed his first professional contract with Somerset County Cricket Club.

The 18-year-old, who has been a part of the Somerset Pathway since joining the Under 10s, has agreed to a deal which will see him join the professional staff initially for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.

The left-arm seamer joined the SCCC Academy in the Autumn of 2022 and has gone on to impress for Ilminster CC and the Somerset Second XI.

He appeared for Somerset in the 2023 National County fixtures against Devon and Cornwall before making his List A debut in August of that year against Sussex in the Metro Bank One Day Cup at the Cooper Associates County Ground, claiming one for 17. He featured in two further matches in the competition and was rewarded with a call up to the England Under 19 squad, making his debut in the ODI series against Ireland.

After signing his contract JT said: “It feels incredible to sign for Somerset. I got a taste of the First XI in the Metro Bank One Day Cup last summer, so to sign a contract is really special. I’ve been here since I was nine, so Somerset is the Club where I want to be.

“The Club have invested in me a lot and it means a huge amount that they’re putting their faith in me.

“I need to thank Ilminster Cricket Club because they’ve played a huge part in getting me to this moment. Andrew Griffiths has been my bowling coach for as long as I can remember so he’s played a vital role alongside Matt Drakeley.

“I can’t wait to get back out there, play some cricket and see where this journey takes me.”

Somerset Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry added: “JT is a player who has impressed us since making his way onto the Somerset Academy. He is a tall, left-arm quick, who poses a genuine threat with the new ball and has the ability to score valuable runs.

“He spent some time in the First XI environment in 2023 and he’s a bowler who has a great deal of potential. We look forward to seeing him progress over the next two years.”

Head of Talent Pathway, Matt Drakeley said: “I am thrilled that JT has been offered his first professional contract with Somerset. Throughout his Pathway journey, JT has shown a high level of resilience in overcoming several challenges to emerge as a stronger and more skilled player.

With his significant potential as a left-arm bowler, he consistently demonstrates his competitiveness with ball in hand and a drive to take wickets. JT will undoubtedly be an exciting addition to the Somerset squad, and I am confident he has a bright future.”