Somerset batter Will Smeed has officially amended his contract to include all formats of cricket for the 2025 season. This significant update allows the 23-year-old to participate in County Championship games, marking a pivotal moment in his career. Previously on a white-ball only contract since the 2023 season, Smeed’s new terms reflect his growing versatility and commitment to the sport.

A Rising Star Returns to Red-Ball Cricket

Smeed’s decision to embrace multi-day cricket comes after a successful stint in the second team at the end of last season, where he averaged 49.50 in three matches. His enthusiasm for red-ball cricket is palpable:

"I'm desperate to play more cricket than I did last summer," Smeed shared on the club’s official website. "Playing a few second XI red-ball games towards the end of last year was really enjoyable, and it made me realize this is a great option for me."

Smeed, who has been with Somerset since he was under-10, made his debut in 2020 and has since become a key player in T20 cricket. He boasts 64 T20 appearances, scoring 1,669 runs with 12 half-centuries. Notably, he became the first batter to score a century in The Hundred in 2022 while playing for Birmingham Phoenix.

Somerset’s Strategic Boost

Somerset’s director of cricket, Andy Hurry, expressed his excitement about Smeed’s expanded role:

"We all know Will has a huge amount of potential, and his return to multi-day cricket will certainly add depth to our County Championship batting options," Hurry stated. "He’s a versatile player, and having him available for all formats is a major advantage for the team."

What’s Next for Smeed and Somerset?

Somerset’s County Championship season kicks off on April 4th with a home game against Worcestershire. With Smeed now available for selection across all formats, the club is poised for a strong performance in 2025. Smeed’s experience in international leagues like the Pakistan Super League, SA20, and Caribbean Premier League further underscores his readiness to excel in championship cricket.

Stay tuned as Will Smeed takes on new challenges and cements his place as one of Somerset’s most dynamic players.