BERTIE Michael, who graduated from the Academy earlier this summer, has signed a two-year contract with Somerset.

The 18 year old left-handed top order batter former King’s College student joined the Somerset Pathway at Under 14 level after making his way through the Gloucestershire EPP.

Bertie, who plays his club cricket for Taunton Deane, made his debut for Somerset Second XI in 2024 and has gone on to feature in ten Second XI County Championship matches. His three games this summer saw him score over 300 runs at an average 61.40 with a best of 107. He also played in five Second XI T20 games for the county in 2026.

His England Under 19 Test debut came earlier this month and he made an immediate impact by scoring 131 opening the batting in the win over Pakistan.

After signing his first pro deal, Bertie said: “I’m delighted to sign my first contract with Somerset. It’s something I’ve worked hard on for a number of years and I’m really grateful to everyone who has helped me get this far, including the coaches at Somerset and Kings and also Taunton Deane and Kingsholm clubs.

“I’m really pleased because it’s a goal that I set myself when I was younger. It’s a dream come true really.

“I’m looking to work hard throughout the winters and in all the training sessions that I’ll get and then I’ll be looking to fight for a place in the First XI.”

Somerset Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry added: “Bertie is a young player with a tremendous amount of potential and we are looking forward to welcoming him into the professional environment next year.

“He impressed for the Second XI this year and it was no surprise that he seamlessly transitioned into the England U19 set up. We are looking forward to witnessing his continued progression moving forward.”

Meanwhile Somerset batter Ruby Davis is leaving at the end of the season. The 21-year-old signed her first professional contract ahead of the 2026 season after making her way through the Somerset Academy.

Regarding her departure, Ruby said: “Being from the South West, it means a lot to have played here. Getting to walk out and play for Somerset has been great. I’ve really enjoyed playing with players who I’ve grown up around in Devon, like Erin Vukusic and Emma Corney.

“To pull on a Somerset shirt together and go out there with them has been really special.

“Being part of the first group of girls to be in Tier 1 here has been really exciting and I’ve really enjoyed my time with the club.

“The biggest thing for me is how close we managed to get in terms of contesting for each trophy. As a collective we felt like we were always in the running and we’ve come a long way together. Some of the relationships I’ve made are definitely going to stick and I’ve met some really cool people.”

Somerset CCC Director of Talent & Women’s Performance Matt Drakeley added: “From her time on the Academy through to her transition into the professional era, Ruby has given 100% and we would like to thank her for everything that she has brought to the environment during that time. “Everyone associated with the club wishes her well and she will always be welcome back at the Cooper Associates County Ground.”