Kent academy student Adam Ball has signed a new three-year professional deal with the club.

The 16-year-old all-rounder is a member of the ECB Fast Bowling Elite group and recently represented England at the ICC Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand.

Kent team director Paul Farbrace said Ball's new contract was a tremendous achievement for such a young player.

He said: "It will provide him with a fabulous chance to develop his game within the first-team squad.

"Beths Grammar School and Bexley Cricket Club must take great credit for helping to develop a talented young cricketer and his development further outlines that our academy is continuing to produce fine home-grown cricketers.”

Acting chief executive Jamie Clifford said Ball was a good example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.

He said: "I would like to thank all of the volunteers within the Bexley district.

"They have helped nurture and develop a young cricketer who has the ability to become a Kent regular for many years to come."