Jamie Overton bowling for North Devon against Sidmouth in the Devon League during the 2019 season<br>credit: Gerryhunt21@btinternet.com

By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

THE Overton twins will be in different camps for the first time in their career next season as Jamie is leaving Somerset for Surrey.

Jamie and Craig, the older twin by around 10 minutes have been team-mates for North Devon CC, Devon CCC, Somerset CCC and various England youth and senior sides since they were old enough to hold a cricket ball.

Craig went one step further by graduating to the England Test side in 2017, something Jamie has not done yet.

Alec Stewart, the director of cricket at Surrey and a former England captain, dropped a big hint when he announced Jamie’s imminent arrival at the Kai Oval that the 26-year-old paceman still has Test aspirations.

“Jamie is a genuine quick bowler and his pace and bounce gives a real x-factor to his armoury,” said Stewart.

“His style of bowling will be well suited to The Kia Oval pitches. He has all the necessary attributes to play for England and we will be working hard to help him achieve that goal.”

Overton will move to Surrey in November on an initial contract that will run until the end of the 2023 season. He will wear the number 88 shirt for his new county.

He takes with him to Surrey nine years’ experience at county level 164 wickets I 64 First-Class appearances.

The Barnstaple-born, six-foot-five right-arm fast bowler is also a dynamic fielder and dangerous lower order batsman, scoring at a quick rate in red- and white-ball cricket.

Overton said leaving Somerset after nearly 10 years either in the academy or on the staff will be a wrench, but the time was right to move on.

I’ve had a great nine years at the club and loved every minute of it, but I feel it is time for a fresh challenge in cricket,” said Overton.

“Somerset will always mean a huge deal to me, particularly the supporters who are exceptional. 

“I would like to thank all the coaching staff for everything they have done for me and the opportunities I have received over my time at the club.

“From the moment Alec made contact and talked me through the opportunity, I was excited about coming to Surrey.

“I am obviously aware of the club’s history and success and these were all major attractions for me in moving from Somerset.

“I needed a fresh challenge to test myself and see how good I can be. I’ve got high aspirations and I’m hoping that being here and working with all involved on and off the pitch I can achieve those dreams.”

Andy Hurry, Somerset’s director of cricket, said the county tried to keep Overton at Taunton, but he turned them down.

“We offered Jamie an extension but respect his decision and whilst sad to see him go, we want to thank him for all his efforts at Somerset and wish him the very best for the future,” said Hurry.

“We are disappointed to be losing Jamie. He is a popular member of the team and with our membership. He has been a fantastic servant for us since joining the Somerset Academy as a 16 year old.”