Kent have rewarded Academy scholar Marcus O’Riordan with his first professional deal at the club.

He has signed on until the end of the season, with the option to join on a permanent basis for two more years.

O’Riordan was named in the first-team squad ahead of Sunday's T20 win over Hampshire at Beckenham in the absence of the injured Imran Qayyum.

The off-spinner has been at Kent since arriving at the academy at the age of 16 in 2014.

O’Riordan took 4-43 as Kent's Second XI team beat Durham in the final of the Second XI Trophy at The County Ground back in June.

His performance saw him finish with 11 wickets in six matches at an average of 21.63 across the tournament.

He has meanwhile taken 21 wickets in seven Second XI Championship matches so far this term, as well as firing a 123-ball century against Middlesex.

The 21-year-old has also claimed 12 wickets playing for Tunbridge Wells in the Kent Cricket League Premier Division this season, including a best of 3-43.

O’Riordan told the Kent website: "I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining my home county as a professional. It’s an exciting time to be involved with Kent Cricket.

"Having worked my way through the age groups and the Academy here, it’s a proud moment for me to have the opportunity to join the professional staff. I can’t wait to represent Kent at the highest level."

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