James Rew: Somerset wicketkeeper-batter signs new deal until 2026

James Rew hit five centuries for Somerset this season

Wicketkeeper-batter James Rew has signed a contract extension to stay with Somerset until the end of 2026.

The 19-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2023 and was named the Professional Cricket Association's men's young player of the year.

He became the club's youngest first-class double centurion in July - and has six red-ball centuries in all.

Rew ended the campaign as Division One's third-highest run-scorer, with 1,086 in 14 matches.

"James is an outstanding talent who has excelled over the last few years," director of cricket Andy Hurry said.

"His performances and consistency with the bat and gloves have grown significantly.

"He has experienced a huge amount in a short space of time and it's absolutely vital that we continue to nurture his talent so he can achieve all of his aspirations within the game."

Rew made his Somerset debut in August 2021 and was part of the England Under-19 team that reached the final of the World Cup that year.

The previous two Somerset batters to score centuries as teenagers were Marcus Trescothick and James Hildreth, and head coach Jason Kerr has previously touted him for a senior England call-up.

"Everything has happened so quickly. I need to keep taking each game as it comes, not change my mindset and not get too far ahead of myself," Rew said.