SOMERSET spinner Lola Harris has signed a contract extension which will see her remain at the Cooper Associates County Ground until at least the end of the 2029 season.

The 19-year-old made her way through the Somerset Player Pathway before joining the Western Storm Academy in 2021 and made her Somerset debut in the same year.

She was named in the England Under 19 training squad ahead of their Tri-Series against Sri Lanka and Australia in 2023. The leg spinner made her professional debut in this season’s opening Metro Bank One Day Cup fixture against Yorkshire at Taunton, claiming her maiden wicket and playing a crucial role with the bat in Somerset’s victory. She also claimed a further two wickets in Somerset’s win at Lancashire.

After signing her contract extension, Lola said: “I’m so excited! I’ve been playing at the club since I was nine, so to be able to be a professional here is a real honour.

“It’s a really good feeling to know that the coaches value me and support me. I’ve felt that support going into the start of the season and it’s really given me so much confidence. It’s been great to be able to contribute so far this season, and it feels amazing.

“Everyone loves cricket in Taunton. I’ve loved being immersed in that and hopefully I can be a role model to young girls here.”

Somerset head coach Erin Osborne said: “I’ve been impressed with Lola, both on and off the field. She has transitioned seamlessly into the First XI and already played an important part for us this season.

“She is a young bowler with a lot of potential and she’s keen to learn. She has a strong work ethic which is crucial at this level and I look forward to watching her game develop over the next few years.”