Somerset have signed South Africa's Jordan Hermann as cover for the County Championship in 2026.
Somerset have bolstered their batting line-up for the 2026 County Championship by signing South Africa’s Jordan Hermann. At 24 years old, the right-handed batsman brings a first-class average of 45.22, including seven centuries, to the side.
His international debut came in a T20I against New Zealand in March, though an injury cut short his involvement in the rest of that tour. Now, he has been named in South Africa A’s upcoming four-day series against the England Lions later this month, marking a key step in his development.
Hermann’s arrival in the UK will be timed to support Somerset’s home opener against Sussex next week, joining the squad ahead of the fixture. After completing the Lions series, he will return for two more Championship matches in June, facing Nottinghamshire and Warwickshire.
These games provide him with crucial early-season exposure in English conditions, where his adaptability will be tested. The move comes as Somerset face a batting crisis, with several key players sidelined.
Opening batter Tom Kohler-Cadmore is out with a fractured thumb, while middle-order batsmen Tom Banton and Lewis Goldsworthy are recovering from finger and hamstring injuries respectively. Thomas Rew is also unavailable as he prepares for his A-Levels exams, leaving the side short on experience and depth.
Andy Hurry, Somerset’s director of cricket, explained that the injuries forced the club to seek reinforcements to bolster their top order. He praised Hermann’s rising reputation and believes he can strengthen the side’s early Championship push.
Hurry described the signing as an exciting addition and expressed confidence in Hermann’s ability to make an impact. Hermann himself has welcomed the opportunity, calling it a thrilling prospect to play in the County Championship.
He sees English conditions as an ideal environment to refine his game and is eager to contribute to Somerset’s strong start. With the club aiming to maintain their momentum, his arrival offers a much-needed boost to their batting department as the season approaches.