First Pro Contract for Bertie
Bertie Michael has signed his first professional contract with Somerset CCC.
The left-handed top order batter and former King’s College student has put pen to paper on a deal which will begin ahead of the 2027 season and run until at least the end of 2028.
Bertie joined the Somerset Pathway at Under 14 level after making his way through the Gloucestershire EPP.
The 18-year-old, who plays his club cricket for Taunton Deane, made his debut for Somerset Second XI in 2024. He has gone on to feature in 10 Second XI County Championship matches for Somerset. His three games this summer saw him score over 300 runs at an average 61.40 with a best of 107. He also played in five Second XI T20 games for the County in 2026.
His England Under 19 Test debut came earlier this month and he made an immediate impact by scoring 131 opening the batting in the win over Pakistan.
After signing his first pro deal, Bertie said: “I’m delighted to sign my first contract with Somerset. It’s something I’ve worked hard on for a number of years and I’m really grateful to everyone who has helped me get this far, including the coaches at Somerset and Kings and also Taunton Deane and Kingsholm clubs.
“I’m really pleased because it’s a goal that I set myself when I was younger. It’s a dream come true really.
“I’m looking to work hard throughout the winters and in all the training sessions that I’ll get and then I’ll be looking to fight for a place in the First XI.”
SCCC Boy’s Academy Lead Coach, Alex Barrow said: “Bertie has shown his quality and potential throughout his time in the Somerset Academy, and we are delighted to see him take the next step in his career with Somerset.
“He has been identified as one of the best young batters in the country and scored a century on his England U19 debut. He has also produced a number of performances across the Under 18 and Second XI competitions, including his maiden Second XI century against Surrey.
“We are really excited about Bertie’s potential and look forward to supporting his continued development as he begins his professional career with Somerset.”
Somerset Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry added: “Bertie is a young player with a tremendous amount of potential and we are looking forward to welcoming him into the professional environment next year.
“He impressed for the Second XI this year and it was no surprise that he seamlessly transitioned into the England U19 set up. We are looking forward to witnessing his continued progression moving forward.”
