Thame all-rounder Michael Beard has signed a professional contract with Gloucestershire.

The youngster, 18, has been part of Gloucestershire’s academy for four years, and follows fellow Oxfordshire player Jack Taylor into a full-time contract with the club.

He was one of three young players to be offered contracts, along side Graeme McCarter, also 18, and 16-year-old Craig Miles.

Gloucestershire’s director of cricket, John Bracewell, said: “I’m excited about this signing. It is great to see our academy system producing players of this standard.

“The enthusiasm and determination these players have will be a great asset to the squad and their eagneress to learn and prove themselves on the professional stage should result in some exciting cricket.”

Beard, who travels with Oxfordshire Under 19s on their Australia tour in two weeks’ time, has signed a two-year contract.

He said: “I’m really excited about the opportunity that has been given to me by Gloucestershire, and I’m looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.

“I would like to thank Owen Dawkins, the academy director, who I have worked with over the last four years. He has helped develop my game a lot.

“Oxfordshire has also really helped me along the way, and I’m grateful for the faith they put in me.”

Oxfordshire youth head coach Darryl Woods added: “I’m delighted that Michael has been given this opportunity.”