New fast bowler Simon Francis is fully fit and has set his sights on a first team spot with the Cidermen this season.

The 23-year-old who was born and brought up in Kent signed for Somerset at the end of last season after he was released by Hampshire.

What attracted him to Somerset, I asked. "I had been speaking to Kevin Shine during the season about what he was doing at the club, and talked to some of the players and it all sounded pretty impressive. The set-up here is very professional and now that I'm here it's even better than I expected.

"The two coaches here are so young that they could still both be playing first-class cricket themselves. They are a lot more open-minded and in touch professionally."

The young fast bowler told me that he had been on the Hampshire staff for six years, but missed the first four months of last season after suffering a stress fracture of the back, ironically in the pre-season friendly at Taunton.

"I bowled just two or three overs in the match and then had to go off," he told me.

What was he hoping for this season, I asked. "I'm aiming to get a full season under my belt and get a regular first team spot. A lot will depend upon the availability of Andrew Caddick, and with the success that both Richard Johnson and Steffan Jones had last season there will be a lot of competition for bowling places. I see myself as the third seamer in the side."

I asked how his training had gone this winter. "The whole set-up at Somerset is dedicated to success. My bowling has improved and I've refined my action. I'm excited and can't wait for the season to start."

How was he enjoying living in the West Country, I asked. "It's a lot quieter than I expected, but I'm settling in well down here. Everyone is so friendly and I get along with everybody.

"I'm buying a property locally and would like to think that this is going to be my home. I'm looking at being at Somerset as a long-term commitment."

Certainly the Somerset Coach Kevin Shine rates the new fast bowler very highly. "I've been aware of him for two or three years and when I heard that he had been released he came straight down here and signed for us, even on the back of his disappointment.

"He's picked himself up and performed really well, which says a lot about him. He's got himself into good shape and really impressed me with his ability to assimilate and practice. He's working outside of the comfort zone and will do anything that is required."

Finally I asked Simon what his dream for the season would be. "I would just love to play for Somerset at Lord's in a cup winning side. I think that's realistic."

Let's all hope that the dream comes true for Simon and the rest of the team!

© SOMERSET