Ball pens pro Kent deal

Adam Ball, seen here on duty for England during the Under-19 World Cup, has agreed professional terms with Kent

England Under-19s all-rounder Adam Ball has signed a three-year professional contract at Kent.

The 16-year-old, who bowls left arm-seam and is also a handy batsman and athletic fielder, is a member of the ECB elite fast bowling group and represented England in the recent U19 World Cup in New Zealand.

He is highly regarded by the coaching staff at Kent and England, with ECB lead fast bowling coach Kevin Shine describing him as “one of the most mature young players I have met.

“Adam's new contract is a tremendous achievement for such a young player,” said Kent team director Paul Farbrace. “It will provide him with a fabulous chance to develop his game within the first-team squad.

“Beths Grammar School and Bexley Cricket Club must take great credit for helping to develop a talented young cricketer and his development further outlines that our Academy is continuing to produce fine home-grown cricketers.”

Acting chief executive Jamie Clifford added: “Adam has progressed through the Kent pathway for young cricketers. He is a good example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.

“I would like to thank all of the volunteers within the Bexley district. They have helped nurture and develop a young cricketer who has the ability to become a Kent regular for many years to come.”