Somerset have confirmed that seamer Jake Ball has put pen to paper on a new contract that will keep him at Taunton through the 2027 season. The announcement, made on August 17, follows the one-year extension Ball agreed in September 2025, which had secured his services through the 2026 campaign.
Ball, who is 35 years old, has now made 59 appearances for Somerset across all formats since joining the county, claiming 97 wickets in that time. He originally arrived at Taunton on a two-year deal in October 2023 after Nottinghamshire released him at the close of the 2023 season.
"I love playing for Somerset and the Vitality Blast win was definitely a career highlight for me. I’ll keep giving everything I have in all formats to help Somerset win matches and I can’t wait to play my part both on and off the field next year and also in our push for this year’s County Championship." Ball said, as quoted by Somerset.
What has Ball contributed since joining Somerset?
Ball has been a reliable wicket-taker for Somerset from the moment he arrived ahead of the 2024 campaign. His tally of 97 wickets from 59 matches across all formats reflects a consistent output over a relatively brief period at the county.
His most celebrated contribution in a Somerset shirt came during the 2025 Vitality Blast final against Hampshire at Edgbaston, where he claimed two wickets to help the county secure the title. That victory has been described by Ball himself as a career highlight.
Beyond his county record, Ball brings the weight of international experience to the Somerset dressing room, having represented England in 24 matches during his career. That background has made him a valued figure in the squad both as a performer and as a senior presence.
What does Somerset's director of cricket say about Ball's extended stay?
Somerset's director of cricket Andy Hurry has been clear about how important Ball remains to the county's ambitions across all three formats.
"Jake is a leading presence both on and off the field, and his expertise and wealth of experience have been fundamental to the success we've enjoyed in recent years. He remains one of the cornerstones of our team and will play a crucial role in driving us forward throughout the rest of this campaign and into the future," Hurry said, as quoted by the aforementioned source.
Hurry's comments underline that Somerset view Ball not merely as a squad option but as a central figure in their plans. With the county also pushing in the County Championship, Ball's ability to contribute across formats makes his retention a significant piece of business for Taunton.