A Sidford teenager could earn his first international cricket cap next week after being called up to play for England’s under-19s.

Sidmouth Herald: Dom being congratulated by Somerset player Jack Leach. Credit: Somerset Cricket ClubDom being congratulated by Somerset player Jack Leach. Credit: Somerset Cricket Club (Image: Archant)

Dominic Bess, known as Dom, feels ‘massively privileged’ to be part of the 13-man squad to play Sri Lanka under-19s in a series of one-day matches.

Dom, 19, started his career at Sidmouth Cricket Club at the age of seven, joining dad Russell, uncle Graham and three cousins, Luke, Josh and Zack, on the teamsheet.

“My role models were my cousins,” said Dom. “When I was young, I would look up to them. The club played a massive role and my family would be around. I would be there Friday night training, playing on a Saturday.”

Aged 15, Dominic was invited to join Somerset Cricket Club’s academy for two years - an intensive programme which tested him physically and mentally. Last month, he made his first-class debut for Somerset playing against Pakistan.

“It’s a massive honour and a privilege to walk out onto the ground with players that you have grown up watching, like Marcus Trescothick. It’s really surreal,” said Dom.

His progress has been noted by national under-19s selectors, who have called him up to the squad for games on August 10, 13 and 16.

Dom said: “I wasn’t really concentrating on England under-19s. I was focusing on trying to make the Somerset side and it has gone too well and I have been picked for my first world-class debut.

“I’m massively privileged to be playing for the under-19s and to get the call-up.”

Dominic also plays for Exeter Cricket Club and the Devon Men’s first team.

Cousin Luke, first-team captain for Sidmouth, said: “We are really proud of him.”