Bea Willis has joined Somerset after signing her first professional contract.
The 20-year-old, a product of the Devon and Gloucestershire Pathways and Western Storm Emerging Player Programme, joined the Somerset Girls Academy last winter.
After impressing for the Academy this summer, the right-arm seamer has signed a contract that will run across the 2026 & 2027 seasons.
After signing for Somerset, Bea said: “It’s amazing to be able to say that I’m a professional cricketer because it’s something that I’ve worked really hard for. It’s really nice to know that the hard work has paid off, but it definitely doesn’t mean that the hard work stops. I’m so excited for what’s to come.
“I pride myself on being a gamechanger and I hope that when my opportunity to represent Somerset arrives that I’ll be someone who runs in quick, challenges batters and changes the course of the game. I have high expectations of myself, and I don’t know what the next two years have in store but I’m going to approach everything with an open mind.
“To represent the region means absolutely everything to me because everyone who has helped me on my journey has played a part in me get to this point.”
Somerset Girls Academy Coach, Jack Bradbury said: “I’m incredibly proud to see Bea sign her first contract. Her commitment to developing over the last 12 months has been phenomenal.
“She’s had a really exciting impact on a number of Academy fixtures this summer as well as in some ECB opportunities which have given her the chance to show everyone in the country how good she is.
“I’m incredibly excited to watch her go about her work as a professional cricketer in her own unique style.”
Somerset Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry added: “Bea has worked hard with the Academy over the last 12 months and has the potential to bring a real point of difference with the ball. I’m sure she’ll be a great asset to the team.
“We’ve been impressed by what we’ve seen her do with the ball this summer, and we’re excited about what she can achieve within the game. We are very much looking forward to working with her on her continued journey.”
With thanks to Somerset CCC
