SOMERSET’S highly-rated young batsman Tom Abell is hoping to make his mark in county cricket after signing his first full contract at the club.

Abell, 20, has signed a four-year deal at Somerset, having worked his way through the academy and junior ranks – and is now hoping to kick on and establish himself in first class cricket.

Abell told Somerset’s official website: “To say that I’m chuffed to bits is an understatement.

“Matt Maynard took me to one side when we were heading up to Durham last week and outlined the club’s plans so I was over the moon to sign.

“Playing for Somerset is always something that I have wanted to do and this gives me the platform to hopefully progress over the next few years and establish myself in the team.”

The former Taunton School pupil burst on to the scene at the tail-end of last season, scoring 95 on his first class debut against Warwickshire at Taunton.

Somerset director of cricket Matt Maynard said: “I’ve seen something that I really like in Tom.

“I like his character, I like what he has to offer and he’s got a lot of talent.

“We are delighted that he’s signed a deal that will keep him here until 2019.

“He is highly thought of and hopefully in the years to come we will see him go on to big things because he certainly has the temperament to do it.”