Kent Academy batsman signs three-year professional deal

Kent Academy student Daniel Bell-Drummond has today signed a new three-year professional contract with the club. The 17 year-old batsman is already an England under 19 international and scored an unbeaten 88 in the win over Sri Lanka, back in July.

Commenting on signing his contract, Daniel Bell-Drummond, from Lewisham, said: “I“m very happy and really shocked. I“m grateful to the club for backing me and offering this long-term contact. I enjoyed a good 2010 and hope that I will continue to develop as I move forward. I would like to thank the club“s Academy director, Phil Relf, and my coach at Millfield School, Mark Davis, for the help and encouragement that they have given me.”

Kent team director, Paul Farbrace (pictured), added: "I am delighted Daniel has committed his future to the club. He is, without doubt, one of the most talented young players in the country. He is yet another great example and role model for young cricketers across the county. We have all been excited by his potential for many years, and he really is a product of the Kent youth development system."

Daniel was a member of the double winning U17s side in 2009 and the ECB cup winning U17s in 2010.

Kent chief executive officer, Jamie Clifford, said: “I am delighted for Daniel – I have seen him progress from our Under 10s to a professional contract and he has worked very hard. It is so pleasing to see players emerge from our development programmes and speaks volumes for the excellent structures we have in place.”