Somerset want to 'pave the way' as new era begins

Somerset's inaugural women's team want to "pave the way" for the next generation ahead of the opening game of their first season, says bowler Laura Jackson.

The club are one of eight counties awarded Tier 1 status following a major revamp of the women's domestic game for this year.

Somerset open their campaign on Wednesday away to Surrey in the One-Day Cup, before their first home match begins on Sunday at their new home the County Ground in Taunton, against Lancashire.

"It's really good when you come to a ground like this [Taunton] seeing how rich a history it's got, but there are no women around so we want to try and pave the way and try and get our pictures up there to inspire the next generation," Jackson told BBC Radio Somerset.

"When I first started being a pro four years ago I wouldn't have told you that we have full professional sides and counties actually had their own teams.

"I'm excited for it and I think England is going to be full of potential."

Jackson, 27, is one of 20 players signed to Somerset for this season, including England all-rounders Danielle Gibson and Charlie Dean, former England captain Heather Knight and Taunton local Sophie Luff, who will captain the side.

Australia all-rounder Amanda-Jade Wellington has also signed as Somerset's overseas player, having played for Western Storm during 2024 in the region.

"When Somerset got awarded the Tier One status, [I] really wanted to be that professional overseas player, the first ever, which is a massive honour. I just can't to get under way," Wellington said.

"I know as an overseas player there's big reputation about yourself and what you can bring to a squad and a team - and the culture as well - so I'm hoping I can make a mark for Somerset."

Former Western Storm head coach Trevor Griffin was appointed head coach of Somerset last autumn.

With the women's teams also competing in the T20 Blast in 2025, Griffin said he wants his side to be competing at the end of the season.

"We want to be there competing as we get into those final games of the season, the real pointy end," Griffin said.

"[We want to be] up there and challenging for the opportunities to get into Finals Day. It's going to be a fascinating year for a number of reasons."