Somerset County Cricket Club has secured the future of promising top-order batter Will Smeed by extending his contract through the end of 2027. Originally set to expire in 2026, the 24-year-old’s new deal allows him to continue representing the club across both white ball and red ball formats.
Smeed made his Somerset First XI debut in the Vitality Blast against Worcestershire at Taunton back in 2020 and quickly earned his first professional contract ahead of the 2021 season. Since then, he has become a key player in the squad, featuring in 81 T20 matches, scoring 2,290 runs with 17 half-centuries at an impressive average of 30.13. Notably, he made history in 2022 by becoming the first batter to score a century in The Hundred tournament.
A pivotal figure in Somerset’s victorious 2023 Vitality Blast campaign, Smeed’s explosive 94-run knock off 58 balls helped seal the title, earning him Player of the Match honors in the final as the club reclaimed the Blast crown.
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“Somerset has been my home throughout my career,” Smeed reflected. “I love the team, the ground, the Members, and our supporters. We’ve shared some fantastic moments, and I’m eager to create many more.”
He also emphasized his ambitions beyond white ball cricket. “Last season’s Vitality Blast win was thrilling and fuels my hunger for success. I’m enjoying playing across all formats and want to maximize my contributions,” he said. “In red ball cricket, my goal is to score consistently for the Second XI and push my way into the first team, which is very competitive. Breaking into and cementing my spot in the red ball side is a target for this year. Winning the County Championship would be incredible, and I want to play a part in achieving that.”
Somerset’s Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry, expressed his excitement about Smeed’s commitment. “Will’s impact in white ball cricket is well known, and his innings in last year’s Blast Final will be remembered for a long time. We’re thrilled he’s committed to representing Somerset in all formats. We look forward to his continued development and influence across the club in the coming seasons.”