Somerset and England cricketer Jamie Overton has taken time out of his schedule to answer some questions for us about his cricket career so far…
Every Professional Player started by playing club cricket – how did you get into the game to start with?
I got into the game from my dad, just going to watch him play on Saturdays and Sundays at my local club and it just progressed from there.
Why did you choose cricket?
I don’t think I choose cricket, I think cricket choose me. I’ve always excelled from it from such a young age I just wanted to keep playing it and see where I can get to.
What other sports did you play at school?
While at school I played rugby, hockey, basketball and some golf.
Which sports people inspire(d) you?
Rory Mcllroy, what he’s done in the game of golf at such a young age shows me that age doesn’t matter if you have enough skills you can do anything.
Dale Steyn in the cricket world, he bowls at 90mph and can swing the ball that’s what all fast bowlers want.
Who has been the greatest influence on your cricketing career to date?
My dad. He has always pushed me to where I am now and continues to push me further.
When did you first decide that you wanted to be a professional cricketer?
I think I first decided I wanted to go into the professional game when I joined the academy at Somerset. That’s when everything started to happen very quickly.
What is the best thing about being a pro?
I think it’s being around all the best players in the country and playing with them. Playing with the likes of Marcus Trescothick and Alfonso Thomas is amazing.
What is the worst thing about being a pro?
It’s a long season and you never really get to see much of your family when you’re playing away from home so that’s the toughest part for sure.
What is the favourite ground you have played at and why?
It has to be Lords. It’s the best ground in the world and playing there just makes me feel I have to up my game even more.
Your brother Craig is also a member of the Somerset Squad. How heated were those ‘back garden’ games growing up?
Yeah it often got heated. It always ended up one of us bowling a lot faster than how it started.
What does it mean to you to play for Somerset?
It means everything. I grew up in Devon so Somerset is the closest first class county and I want to do well from Somerset.
Who is the hardest player you have had to bowl at so far and why?
Marcus Trescothick, because he has played a lot of Test Matches and ODIs for England so it is hard work when you bowl to him in the nets.
What is your best bowling performance?
Bets bowling is 6-95 vs Middlesex last year at Taunton
Who is your most prized scalp so far in your career?
Has to be my first First Class wicket of Jacques Rudolph in my first over of First Class cricket.
What is your most memorable cricketing moment?
Getting my first contract from Somerset.
Some batsmen or bowlers have been known not to change their shirt if they are on a good run of form for fear of changing their luck - Have you any superstitions?
I always have to wear a jumper when I field even if it’s 25 degrees I still wear one.