Wicket-keeper Simon Fernandes has signed a short-term deal with Essex covering the duration of the 2024 Metro Bank One Day Cup.
Fernandes, 24, was born in Colchester, and having been a member of the Essex Pathway since Under-14 level, made his Second XI Championship debut against Hampshire in August 2021.
He has played Second XI cricket on a more regular basis this year, appearing in five Championship and eight T20 matches, totalling 448 runs across both formats.
Of that amount, 227 have come in T20 cricket at an average of 32.43, with the 24-year-old hitting a top score of 92 off 52 balls against Hampshire earlier this month.
In parallel fashion, his top score in red-ball Second XI cricket is also 92 against Hampshire, as part of 221 runs he has hit in the Second XI Championship at an average of 44.20.
Away from Essex sides, Fernandes has represented the First XI of his home town club of Colchester and East Essex since 2017, and played for his alma maters Oundle School and Durham UCCE.
50-over cricket in Chelmsford this summer
The competition has not only recently proven itself to be wide open and highly competitive, but also a breeding ground for the next generation of elite cricketers.
With all four matches set to take place during the school summer holidays, each fixture makes a perfect family day out in the heart of Chelmsford.
Wednesday 24 July, 11:00am: Essex v Warwickshire – buy here
Wednesday 31 July, 11:00am: Essex v Leicestershire Foxes – buy here
Sunday 04 August, 11:00am: Essex v Glamorgan – buy here
Friday 09 August, 2:00pm: Essex v Surrey – buy here
Friday 26 July, 11:00am: Essex Women v Kent – buy here
Wednesday 14 August, 11:00am: Essex Women v Sussex – buy here
