New signings David Payne (left) and Chris Dent

Two of Gloucestershire's academy players have been handed professional contracts with the club.

Eighteen-year-olds David Payne and Chris Dent have signed two year deals.

Payne told the club website: "I am ecstatic. I have worked really hard on my skills, fitness and performances and all the hard work has paid off."

Dent added: "It is great to have fulfilled my goal of becoming a professional. I hope it is the start of a successful career with the county."

Payne, who is a seam bowler, has been part of Gloucestershire's academy for the past two seasons.

He signed a development contract earlier this year and was part of the England under 19 squad for their Test series with Bangladesh.

Dent, who is a batsman who also bowls left arm spin, started off with Gloucestershire's youth cricket programme before moving up to the academy.

He will play overseas during the winter and join the professional staff next March.

Academy director Owen Dawkins said : "It is great to see these talented young players coming through the academy here at Gloucestershire and it is great for the emerging young cricketers of the county to see what can be achieved."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version