AUSTRALIAN batsman Matt Renshaw will be returning to play for Somerset in their first seven championship matches of the upcoming 2024 season.

The 27-year-old was born in Middlesborough but grew up in Australia where he has enjoyed a very successful cricketing career and to date the left handed opener has appeared in 14 Test Matches. In all first class cricket he averages just over 38.

Renshaw has spent two previous spells as one of Somerset’s overseas players, in 2018 and 2022 and has played in 14 championship matches, in which he had scored over 1,100 runs at an average of 49.26, with a best for the Cidermen of 146.

Renshaw said: "I really enjoy my time with Somerset and I can’t wait to go back again this summer. It’s a special place and there’s a great atmosphere around the whole club.

“I’ve always kept in touch with the guys, and I jumped at the chance of returning for a third time.”

Somerset are due to play a three day pre-season friendly against Exeter University starting on Sunday 31st March before the open their championship programme with an away match against Kent at Canterbury on Friday April 5.