Somerset County Cricket Club announce they have signed James Bryant from Eastern Province, South Africa on a two-year contract.

JDC Bryant is a 26-year-old right-hand top order batsman. Until the end of last season, he averaged 38.25 in first class cricket, which included six centuries. This season, he is averaging 57.57 for Eastern Province.

Although born in Durban of British parents, he holds a British passport and plays for Eastern Province as an overseas player and therefore qualifies under England & Wales Cricket Board regulations to play first class cricket as a non-overseas player.

Somerset Head Coach, Kevin Shine said, "As everyone knows, we need a proven top order batsman and we think James is a good signing for the Club".

James Bryant said, "I am very happy to have the chance to play in England for Somerset and I know I have a lot to do to prove myself to the knowledgeable Somerset fans. Jimmy Cook has warned me that they are very demanding".

© Somerset