Experienced player to lead Somerset into the new era of women’s cricket.
Sophie Luff has been appointed as Somerset Women’s first professional captain for the inaugural season of the new Women’s County competition.
Luff, 31, has a long history with Somerset cricket, starting in age groups and debuting for the senior team in 2009. She has played 74 List A matches for Somerset, scoring 2330 runs at an average of 43.14, with a top score of 138 not out. In T20s, she has 1675 runs from 68 matches, averaging 35.63.
She previously captained Somerset from 2017 to 2022 and captained Western Storm from 2020. She was the first player to reach 100 appearances for Storm, scoring over 1760 List A runs at an average of 50.54 with a best of 157 not out. Her T20 record for Storm includes 850 runs at 25.90, with a highest score of 78.
Luff’s experience also includes representing England at Academy, Development, and Under-19 levels. She has also played in the Hundred for Welsh Fire, London Spirit, and Southern Brave.
“It feels like coming home this winter,” Luff stated. “I’m excited to lead this great group and becoming the first professional captain for my home club is an unbelievable honor and fills me with pride.”
She added, “Somerset County Cricket Club means so much to me. Watching players like Marcus Trescothick here as a child is where my love for the game began. Having been involved with the club for so long, this group has a chance to set the standards for Somerset Women’s cricket.”
“This club has a rich history and incredible past captains. To be among them is a real privilege and incredibly special.”
Somerset Women Head Coach, Trevor Griffin, commented, “Sophie has consistently demonstrated leadership on and off the field throughout her career. She commands respect in the dressing room and is a true professional. Her extensive experience and game understanding are invaluable.”
Griffin continued, “Sophie is passionate about cricket and Somerset. Her deep understanding of what representing Somerset means ensures she will lead by example every time she plays.”
SCCC Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry, added, “Sophie is integral to women’s cricket in this region. She inspires teammates and is a role model for young cricketers in the South West. Her tenacity and winning attitude are exceptional, and she possesses all the qualities needed to be a successful captain and leader.”
