ALEX Barrow, who was released by Somerset CCC at the end of last season, has been training with Taunton Rugby Club regularly since the end of the cricket season, writes Richard Walsh.

On Friday evening he made his home debut in the Somerset Cup match against Clevedon under floodlights at Hyde Park.

The 24-year-old scrum-half may have been on the losing side but he is just loving being able to play rugby again.

“When I was at King's College I loved my rugby and played through the age groups for Bath RFC from Under-7s to Under-14s but, then, cricket took over and when I signed to become a professional cricketer that all had to stop, and I missed it very much,” he said.

“It's seven years since I last played a game of rugby, although I have always taken every opportunity to practice my kicking or throwing and passing the ball about - even during the cricket season.

“Of course I am still hoping another county will want to sign me but this winter has given me the chance to resume playing rugby and I am really enjoying myself.”

He added: “Taunton is a great club and all the players and the management have made me very welcome.

"We train hard twice a week and have a match at the weekend and it's just great the way everyone has embraced me so it's good to be involved with another set-up.

“Playing rugby again is something I have wanted to do for a long time.

"Being competitive, I'm looking to challenge myself and push myself as hard as I can in a different sport.

“Being released by Somerset has given me the chance to open another door which you can't do when you are a full-time professional.

“For me to be still learning and developing my game at the age of 24 is almost more exciting for me than if I had done it when I was 15 because I think you become more aware of what is going on.

“I have improved considerably since I came back to playing and my game skills are coming back but still developing.

"It's great fun, though, and I am really loving being involved at Taunton Rugby Club.”