Colchester youngster Ben Allinson lands Essex summer contract

Former Colchester and East Essex seamer Allison, along with Will Buttleman, have signed deals until the end of the season.

The youngsters have both been heavily involved with Essex's second XI over the last few years and will be looking to break into the first team over the duration of the season.

Allison said: “I’m delighted to sign my first contract with the club.

"I’ve been with Essex since I was eight years old and it’s always been my dream to be a professional cricketer.

"To now be contracted is a very special moment and a very proud day for me and my family.”

On his summer contract, Buttleman said: “I’m thrilled to sign a contract with Essex and I’m really looking forward to the season, building on the first team experience I’ve already gained this year and developing further as a player.”

Allison, who has represented England at under-19 level, has been a long-time member of the Essex Academy.

He has previously played for Colchester’s first XI in the Shepherd Neame Essex League First XI premier division.

Allison has benefited from the mentoring of fellow Colchester and East Essex cricket Ben Stephens, who has been coaching him at his PiriPiri coaching events since he was ten years old.

He first signed an Essex Academy contract in 2015, after starring at the under-15 Bunbury festival for the South of England team.

Meanwhile, Buttleman was drafted into the first team at the last moment during the opening County Championship fixture against Hampshire after Adam Wheater suffered a hand injury, and with Michael Pepper recovering from appendix surgery.

He impressed with the gloves and Head Coach Anthony McGrath said: “Will did an outstanding job behind the stumps for us and is an excellent prospect for the future.

“Both he and Ben have shown tremendous potential and have been involved in the first team set up since the start of the season.

"We’re all excited to see how they develop and push on over the course of the campaign.”