Teen prospect Kai Smith signs Bears contract

Promising wicket-keeper batter Kai Smith has signed a rookie contract with Warwickshire.

The 18-year-old – who made six appearances during the Bears commanding Metro Bank One Day Cup group campaign – has penned a two-year deal that keeps him at Edgbaston until at least the end of the 2025 season.

Dubai-born Smith – who’s twice represented the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Under-19s World Cup – came through the Warwickshire Academy having been recommended by Bears legend and former UAE coach Dougie Brown.

Warwickshire Performance Director Gavin Larsen described the teenager as an exciting talent.

He said: “I’m delighted to have Kai on-board. He’s a talented young batter with a real X-factor. I look forward to watching his progress with us over the next two years.

“He’s one of the cleanest young ball strikers I’ve seen, and as we saw in his One Day Cup appearances this summer he certainly looked comfortable at that level.

“It’s always special to contract a young player for the future, and I wish him all the very best as a Bear.”

Smith scored 47 runs in three innings during this year’s 50-over competition and claimed a catch in his one start behind the stumps.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity this amazing club has given me,” said Smith. “It’s a proud moment for me and my family, and I’m elated to be a Bear.

“Breaking into the senior side and being able to learn from and play among some of the best players in the country was really inspiring. We are all so close, like family, and I’m very lucky to be able to take to the field with such great guys.

“This a great opportunity for me to learn as much as possible, gain experience from being around the professionals and coaches, and take my game to another level.

“I can’t comprehend how excited I am to wear the Bear with pride and to go out there, giving it my absolute all for my teammates, the fans, and this amazing Club.”