Lewis Goldsworthy signs Somerset contract extension

The 20-year old came through the academy at Somerset and made his first XI debut in last season’s Vitality Blast

Lewis Goldsworthy has signed a two-year contract extension with Somerset to keep him at the club until at least the end of the 2023 season.

The 20-year old, who joined the Somerset academy in 2016, made his first XI debut in last season’s Vitality Blast against Glamorgan after impressing for the second XI and with England U19s at the World Cup.

Goldsworthy, a bowling all-rounder, has made three T20 appearances for Somerset, taking five wickets with an economy of 7.81 and recording a high score of 38 not out.

Commenting on his contract extension, Goldsworthy said: "I’m really excited to be a part of this squad for another few years. 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.

Lewis Goldsworthy has signed a contract extension with Somerset County Cricket Club! 🤝

⤵️⤵️⤵️#WeAreSomerset@CornwallCricket

— Somerset Cricket 🏏 (@SomersetCCC) January 28, 2021

"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."

Somerset’s director of cricket, Andy Hurry, praised the youngster’s debut season, remarking: "Lewis is a player of considerable promise, and he demonstrated that last year. 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."

County cricket ins and outs 2021: Signings, transfers, squad updates

Meanwhile, the county’s head of talent pathway, Steve Snell, added: "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. Certainly, we’ve seen in the last few years that the players who are transitioning from the academy are having an impact and Lewis has certainly done so.

"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 is going to further improve, which is so exciting for the club and our supporters."