A teenage cricketer from Sidford has been named in the England Lions squad.

Dom Bess is among the 13-man squad set to face South Africa A later this month, writes Clarissa Place.

The bowler was selected alongside Somerset County Cricket Club team mates Jack Leach and Jamie Overton for the four day fixture in Canterbury.

The former Sidmouth Cricket Club player made his debut for the county side last year taking six wickets in his first match. Matt Maynard, Somerset’s director of cricket, said: “I’m delighted for the three boys.

“They are outstanding cricketers who have all the attributes needed to go on and play for their country. I’m sure they will show the selectors exactly what they can do during this match against South Africa A and there is no doubt that they have bright futures ahead of them.”

The match will take place at the Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence from June 21 to 24.

James Whitaker, the National Selector, said: “It’s good to see a number of players in this squad who have come through the England Under-19s environment, and started to make an impact in county cricket.

“The Lions is another step up for them, and there is a balance with some more experienced players which we believe creates an exciting squad.”