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Thomas Rew’s busy time
Since May 21st when it was announced that Academy wicket-keeper/ batter Thomas Rew had signed a short term contract, the 17-year-old has hardly had time to draw breath.
“It’s been a very busy time for me but really exciting. First I got to go up to Durham with the four day squad where I managed to get on the field and keep wicket, which was a great opportunity. Then to be part of the team for the first two wins in the Blast was just fantastic and a great start to the competition,” the Kings College student said.
So how did it all come about?
“About a week before the contract started I had a meeting with Andy Hurry and he let me know that he’d like me to be around the squad and I’ve been lucky enough to get some opportunities in the First Team.”
Thomas didn’t have to wait long before he got his chance when his older brother James, who is also a wicket-keeper/batter, was injured against Durham meaning that the Academy youngster would get his chance to keep.
“After James was injured and I heard that I was going to keep in the second innings, I must admit that I was pretty nervous, especially as I wasn’t going to bat and this was my only opportunity to make an impact in the game.”
How hard was it to step up to ‘keep in the Championship.
“It is very different and a lot tougher keeping at First Team level. The pace of the bowling is faster and also there’s more movement after the bat. There’s also a bit more wobble and late swing, which you don’t get in other cricket that I’ve played. However, it was a great opportunity to keep to some of the best bowlers at the Club.”
Thomas remained as part of the squad and made his T20 debut for Somerset four days later.
“When I was fielding in the first game in the Blast against Surrey on Friday night there was a great atmosphere at Taunton, but I was nervous as well. However, I took a catch and it helped to settle my nerves a little bit, but it was a great feeling.
“The coaching staff were pretty good in helping me to feel calm and help me along the way. All the players in the squad gave me a helping hand as well and they all helped me to be clear on what I was going to do.”
Thomas talked about his debut innings against Surrey.
“When I batted, I got off the mark but then sliced the ball a little bit and was caught trying to hit it straight down the ground, but that can happen in T20 cricket and I’m always looking to take the positive option. However, at least the team got over the line.”
Thomas then played for Somerset again 48 hours later when they beat Essex at Chelmsford before returning to school on Monday morning.
“It was nice to see all my mates again at King’s but there are a couple of Blast games coming up, so hopefully it’s going to be a busy few weeks.”
