George Bell signs rookie contract with Lancashire

The 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batter impressed for both Lancashire’s second XI and England Under-19s in 2021

George Bell has been awarded a rookie contract with Lancashire for the 2022 season.

The 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batter impressed for both Lancashire’s second XI and England Under-19s in 2021, representing the latter against West Indies in September. In four innings for England, he scored 127 runs, including a knock of 60 not out in the fifth 50-over match.

Bell, who joined the club’s academy in 2019 after coming through the age-group system, will tour Sri Lanka with England Under-19s later this month.

Commenting on signing his first contract, Bell said: "I am very excited. I found out towards the back end of the summer and now I just can’t wait to get going with my first year as a pro. A lot of hard work has led to this moment since I joined Lancashire as an Under-11, but it is a dream come true to get this contract and now there is a lot harder work to come.

"It was a great experience to play most matches for the second XI this year, it was really good to learn from the first team players and to have an opportunity to pick their brains and watch how they go about their game."

Director of cricket performance, Mark Chilton, added: "George is an exciting talent and he has really impressed the coaching staff with his determined attitude and performances for the second XI this summer.

"George impressed with the England Young Lions against West Indies earlier this summer and he is fully deserving of his place on the tour to Sri Lanka. We are looking forward to tracking George’s progress over the winter and will be excited to welcome him back into squad training once he returns to Emirates Old Trafford."

County cricket ins and outs 2022: Signings, transfers, squad updates