England Under-19 batsman Bell-Drummond signs for Kent

Kent have signed England Under-19 batsman Daniel Bell-Drummond from their academy on a three-year deal.

Bell-Drummond, 17, played a crucial role in England Under-19s' six-wicket win to level the series against Sri Lanka Under-19s, anchoring a fourth-innings run chase with a mature 88.

Another graduate of Millfield School - that produced Craig Kieswetter, James Hildreth and Rory Hamilton-Brown - Bell-Drummond is looking forward to improving his game with a professional contract at Kent.

"I'm grateful to the club for backing me and offering this long-term contact," he said. "I enjoyed a good 2010 and hope that I will continue to develop as I move forward. I would like to thank the club's academy director, Phil Relf, and my coach at Millfield School, Mark Davis, for the help and encouragement that they have given me."

Kent coach Paul Farbrace was delighted Bell-Drummond had committed his future to the club."He is, without doubt, one of the most talented young players in the country," said Farbrace.

"He is yet another great example and role model for young cricketers across the county. We have all been excited by his potential for many years, and he really is a product of the Kent youth development system."