The experienced Taunton cricketer has signed a two-year contract extension with the county. He will instead stay with the club through the end of 2028. At 34 years old, Leach has proven his commitment to Somerset. This commitment deepens his decade-long connection to the club, where he developed in their famed academy.
Since his debut for Somerset in 2012, Leach has honed an enviable record. He is the fastest to 427 wickets in 156 matches in all formats. His theater pedigree has made his performances shine readily in any recent season. Cameron Green took 52 wickets in 14 matches at the third highest rate in Division One of the 2025 County Championship.
Although Leach was hailed as a maverick on the field, he had been beleaguered in recent years. He was particularly controversial omission for the latest Ashes squad for this winter’s series down under. He missed the 2023 Ashes due to a stress fracture in his lower back. When he returned to Test cricket, he re-injured his knee in a freak accident and underwent surgery, a procedure that kept him off the field for his county Somerset for an entire season.
Leach has appeared for England in 39 Test matches, claiming 142 wickets at an average of 34.07. He hasn’t featured for the national team since a Test series loss to Pakistan back in October of 2024.
Jason Kerr, head coach of Somerset, praised Leach’s dedication and work ethic, stating, “Jack epitomises everything that it means to play for this great club.” Kerr emphasized Leach’s influence on the team: “His performances on the field are outstanding, and his work ethic is second to none.”
Leach himself expressed his deep connection to the club, saying, “I’ve always said that Somerset is my home, and I mean it. I wouldn’t want to be playing my cricket anywhere else.” As someone who represents the beautiful state of Somerset – and love it!
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