It's a dream come true - Overton

Craig Overton’s first thoughts were of brother Jamie after learning of his selection for the Ashes tour this winter.

While thrilled with his first appearance in an England Test squad, the 23-year-old Somerset all-rounder was quick to sympathise with the contrasting fortunes of his highly-rated twin, who has missed the second half of the county season with a back problem.

Craig said: “I spoke to Jamie last night and he was really happy for me. It’s been a tough year for him, but hopefully he will come back strongly and I’m sure he’ll get his chance soon.

“It’s a dream come true for me. Playing for England has always been a dream of mine and to get the chance in Australia makes it even more special.

“It doesn’t get much bigger than an Ashes tour and I can’t wait to get out there.”

Confirmation of his call-up came yesterday and sparked celebrations for the Overton family and North Devon Cricket Club where the twins played from an early age.

Craig added: “I’d heard that some bits and pieces were coming out in the press, but you’re never quite sure until you get the call.

“It was a nice call to get. James Whitaker rang me just as I pulled into the drive at home. As soon as I’d hung up I called my dad to let him know and we had a really nice conversation.”

There will be no shortage of encouragement for Craig from within Somerset’s dressing room, with one player in particular qualified to provide useful information.

“Marcus Trescothick has already given me some advice about playing in the Ashes,” said Craig. “He told me not to listen to the Aussies because they’ll give me plenty of stick!”

Overton’s three wickets for seven runs in the first innings of the current Specsavers County Championship match with Middlesex took his tally in the competition this season to 46.

Such has been his consistency and fitness that he has only missed one game all season in all three formats.

“I’d like to thank all the Somerset members and fans for all the support they’ve given me this year and throughout my career,” he said.

“Keep supporting me through the winter and hopefully it will go well.”

Educated at West Buckland School, Craig progressed through the Devon Age Groups before graduating from Somerset’s Academy.

In 2011 he was a member of the National Performance Programme and toured Sri Lanka with England Under-19s. The following year he was a member of the England Under-19 World Cup squad in Australia.

Craig made his first class debut for Somerset in 2012 against Lancashire at Taunton and also his List A debut against Durham at Chester-le-Street. At the end of that season he was named Somerset Academy Player of the Year.

During the winter that followed he was selected for the England Lions tour to Australia where he performed well. But a stress fracture of the back then hampered his progress and meant he sat out most of the 2013 season.

Restored to full fitness Craig made huge progress in 2014, playing in 13 first class matches and scoring 431 runs, with a highest of 99 against Lancashire at Taunton. He also took 42 wickets.

He enjoyed his best season to date in 2015, during which he underlined that claims to be considered a genuine all-rounder. He scored 320 runs at an average of 29 and claimed 43 wickets at 21.70, with a best of six for 74.

That summer Craig was called up for an England ODI series, but did not play. He spent the following winter with the ECB Performance Programme.

Craig enjoyed another successful season in 2016, during which he scored 435 first class runs including his maiden century - 138 against Hampshire at Taunton - and took 34 wickets.

He was then selected for the England Lions and this season he was named in the England T20 squad to face South Africa without making an appearance.

England Test squad