IT’S something of a rarity when a Marcus Trescothick century at Taunton receives only the second loudest cheer of the day, let alone the session.

But a firm push through the covers from the Somerset master’s young apprentice was enough to bring an elated crowd to its feet and a warm, fuzzy feeling to everyone in attendance.

Having cruised along to 96 in attractive fashion early on day two, Tom Abell’s quest for a maiden first-class century took a brief timeout, as his captain at the other end brought up his 57th with a firm cut behind square off the bowling of Mason Crane.

He spent five deliveries on 99 before watching from the non-strikers end as Trescothick played out the next two overs.

But one of the most impressive qualities Abell possesses, besides his precise footwork and effortless timing, is composure.

With his teammates huddled on the balcony, the 21-year-old threaded a drive through the off-side field to go to three figures for the first time in first-class cricket - and you’d bet your life it won’t be the last.

On a morning of milestones, the Taunton youngster had earlier passed 1,000 first-class runs in just his 17th match.

This innings was perhaps one of Abell’s most fluent in the County Championship and when he eventually departed for 131 from 203 balls, the opener had struck 20 boundaries.

Abell - along with Craig Overton and James Hildreth - has been one of the few shining lights in an otherwise disappointing season at the County Ground, but a victory this week would go a long way to retaining top flight status in the LV County Championship and ease the anxiety of a crowd not used to battling it out at the bottom in recent years.

The 2015 season won’t live long in the memory of Somerset supporters, but this morning’s session just might.

It’s too early to predict just how far up the cricketing ladder Tom Abell will climb, but one thing is for sure – this is a young man with a big future.

Abell by name, able by nature.