SOMERSET County Cricket's first team will return to training next week, the club has confirmed today.

Members of the playing squad will return to individual training on Wednesday, July 1.

The side includes six players who were recently announced in England's bumper squad of 55 last month - Tom Banton, Dom Bess, Lewis Gregory, Jack Leach, Craig Overton, and Jamie Overton

The players will begin training under strict government guidance, said a spokesman for the club, to ensure a safe environment, with a view to professional cricket hopefully returning in August.

Somerset Head Coach Jason Kerr said: “It’s great news that the players and staff have an official return to training date.

"There is huge excitement around the group, with the prospect of training shortly and the hopeful return of some cricket.

"The lads have been very creative whilst in lockdown, adapting brilliantly to training away from the environment and we can now focus on preparing best we can over the next few weeks.”

Training will take place at the Cooper Associates County Ground, which remains closed to the public at this time.

Official merchandise can still be purchased online via SCCC Shop and club partners Somerset County Sports are now open for business via an entrance located further along St James Street.

The club spokesman added: "A further statement with regards to 2020 Membership and Ticketing policies and procedures will be announced in the week commencing Monday, July 6."