Somerset County Cricket Club are delighted to announce that Fran Wilson has signed a contract to represent Somerset Women.
The former England batter initially represented Somerset between 2006 and 2014, scoring over 1700 List A runs at an average of 32.90 with a best of 103. She also played 20 T20 matches for the County, scoring 810 runs at 50.62 with a best of 99.
She played 33 List A matches for Western Storm, scoring over 1000 runs at an average of 36.21 with a best of 81. She also wore the green and black in 56 T20s making over 900 runs 26.62 with a best of 58 not out. During her time with Storm, the 32-year-old batter helped the team to claim two Kia Super League titles.
Fran made her England debut in 2010 and went on to make 64 appearances across the three formats, scoring more than 800 runs.
Her biggest accomplishment came in 2017 when she played her part as England claimed the ICC Cricket World Cup.
She has also represented Gloucestershire, Sunrisers, Middlesex, Kent, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Thunder, Welsh Fire, Trent Rockets, Oval Invincibles and Birmingham Phoenix.
After signing her contract, Fran said: “It’s very sentimental for me because I started my career at Somerset, so it feels like a full circle moment. It means a lot to me and to my family as well, especially my dad because he’s a big Somerset fan.
“Somerset has really strong connections with the neighbouring counties like Devon and Cornwall, so to be able to inspire people from across the region is really special.
“To be in the first group of professional players for Somerset is really exciting. There’s a lot of expectation, but that’s exactly what we want. We want that challenge. I want to be somewhere where there’s an expectation and the responsibility to do well.”
Somerset Women Head Coach, Trevor Griffin added: “I’m delighted that Fran has signed for us. I’ve worked with her for a number of years, and she is always determined to keep improving and influence games. Her experience on and off the park is invaluable and I’m looking forward to continuing to work with her.”
SCCC Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry is pleased to have secured the services of such an experienced and talented cricketer. “Fran is a player who is incredibly well respected within the game,” he said”. Not only is she a World Cup winner, but she is a genuine role model for the younger players. The way that she conducts herself both on and off the field is exemplary and it is a pleasure to be able to work with a player who has achieved so much.
“She is a former Somerset player who takes great pride in wearing the Wyvern, and Somerset CCC as a whole will benefit from Fran’s enthusiasm and passion for the game and the Club.”
With thanks to Somerset CCC
