SOMERSET County Cricket Club have announced the signing of opening batter Andrew Umeed.

The 26-year-old, who was born in Glasgow and has represented Scotland, joins the club with immediate effect.

His contract will run until at least the end of the 2023 season.

The former Warwickshire player has worked incredibly hard to get back into the professional game, and the support of the South Asian Cricket Academy has been pivotal to his reintegration back into elite cricket, which has included a number of opportunities for Somerset Second XI where he has a best of 125.

Regarding Somerset’s new signing, director of cricket Andy Hurry said: “We have been impressed with what we have seen from Andy during his time with us this summer.

"Andy’s story is a great reflection of his determination to succeed.

"Having had the opportunity to observe him within the Second XI Championship this summer, where his assuredness, approach and method to scoring runs has impressed both coaches and fellow players, we are delighted he has agreed to join the club and we look forward to seeing his journey within the game continue to evolve.”

After putting his signature to the deal, Umeed said: “I’m really grateful for this opportunity and it means everything to me.

"Being a cricketer is all I’ve ever wanted to do.

“My journey has highlighted how much I love playing cricket.

"Being out of the game has given me perspective and made me realise just how lucky I am to be able to keep pursuing my dream.

“There have been ups and downs in my career so far, but this goes to show that if you keep doing your best and work hard then the rewards will come.

“The South Asian Cricket Academy have helped me a lot.

"They’ve given me the opportunity to train through the winter and given me access to quality coaches.

"That has helped me to bridge that gap between club cricket and the professional game.”