Somerset extend contract of Lewis

CORNISHMAN Lewis Goldsworthy has become the next player to commit their future to Somerset and has targeted a first ever County Championship title, writes Stuart James.

The 20-year-old all-rounder, who hails from Cornwall, has signed a two-year extension to his current deal and joins Jack Brooks, James Hildreth and England spinner Jack Leach in pledging his future to the club.

“I’m really excited to be a part of this squad for another few years,” Goldsworthy said. “We’ve got a really exciting group here at the moment with a nice mix of youth players and quality experienced professionals, so hopefully we can build on last year and go one better in the Championship.

“As I said when I signed my first contract, this is like a dream come true because I grew up supporting the Club and watching the games here in Taunton.

“Obviously, I played some games last year, but it wasn’t in front of any crowds. Hopefully, we might be able to get the Members and supporters back in this summer because the crowds that we get here are really good and they get right behind the team.”

Goldsworthy made his First XI debut in last season’s Vitality Blast victory at Glamorgan and made an immediate impact, scoring 38 not out from 29 balls and claiming two for 24. He also featured in the fixtures against Northants Steelbacks and Gloucestershire.

Goldsworthy, who was educated at Millfield, impressed for the Somerset Second XI in 2019 and was one of the standout performers for England Under 19s at last year’s World Cup and Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry was delighted to tie him down to a new deal.

“Lewis is a player of considerable promise, and he demonstrated that last year,” he said. “To perform in the manner that he did on his debut showed not only his talent but his mental fortitude.

“His journey is going to be an exciting one and we are extremely pleased that we are going to be playing a further part in that moving forward.”

Head of the SCCC Talent Pathway, Steve Snell said: “When our Academy graduates make their way onto the professional staff, we want to ensure the impact that they have on the First XI is a positive one. First and foremost, we want to see them make their way into that XI and then ensure that they can have an impact.

“It was fantastic for Lewis to get his opportunity and he really showed what he can do with the bat, with the ball and in the field.

“He’s a three-dimensional cricketer and he’s is going to further improve, which is so exciting for the club and our supporters.”