SOMERSET County Cricket Club is pleased to announce the signing of wicket keeper Jess Hazell.

The 20-year-old University of Exeter student has signed an initial one-year rookie contract with the county. After making her way through the County’s Age Group system, Jess made her Somerset debut in 2019 and was an ever-present for the county in the T20 competition just two years later.

She was also a part of the Somerset squad that lifted a County T20 title under lights at the Cooper Associates County Ground in 2023.

Jess was selected onto the Western Storm Academy in 2021 and made her full debut for Storm earlier this year against South East Stars at the Cooper Associates County Ground at Taunton in the Rachel Heyhoe-Flint Trophy competition.

After signing for the club, Jess said: “This is such an honour for me because I've been part of the Somerset Pathway since I was 10 years old. To now wear the Wyvern as a professional player is an incredible feeling for me..

“It feels surreal to be a part of the first group of professional female cricketers at Somerset knowing that we will be role models to so many other women and girls.

"We've got a young squad but it's a squad with a lot of potential. We are fortunate to have youth alongside some more experienced players who can help guide and support the younger members of the squad by sharing their wisdom and experiences.

"We can't wait to get going and to show everyone what Somerset is all about.

”Regarding Jess signing for the club, Somerset Women head coach, Trevor Griffin said: “Jess has really developed her wicketkeeping skills and has shown she has the potential to perform at the professional level. She’s a local player who understands what it means to play for this county, and I have no doubts that Jess will continue to grow and push for selection.”

SCCC Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry added: “Jess has been affiliated with Somerset for a decade and therefore knows what representing this Club is all about.

“She is a player with a lot of potential and we look forward to seeing what the next 12 months, and hopefully beyond, have in store. We are extremely fortunate to have a player with such ability and experience at such a young age.