A TALENTED Chatteris cricketer has signed a contract with the Northamptonshire Academy after enjoying the most successful season of his career.

Connor Cunningham has began winter training with the professional club, who secured his signature after an impressive season playing for Peterborough Town in the Northants Premier League.

The 17 year-old batsman scored more than 1500 runs in all cricket last season. He was named as Peterborough Town’s young player of the year after amassing more than 900 runs at an average of over 50.

“I feel honoured to be able to pull on the Northants shirt,” said Cunningham. “I can’t wait for that first game for them.

“It was fantastic to get a few runs under my belt this year. I’ve never been intimidated playing at high standard, I just want to perform and make a name for myself.”

The teenager’s best performance saw him score his maiden premier league century - smashing a brutal 132 not out against Burton Latimer.

He also earned his first cap for Northamptonshire’s second eleven, top scoring with 44 against Kent.

The Northamptonshire Academy - which has coached international players such as England spinner Monty Panesar - has now placed Cunningham on a training programme which could see him progress into the first team.

He said: “I’m training in the gym five or six times a week and I train with Northants twice a week. I’ve already been set my goals for the season ahead.

“Hopefully all this work and effort is going to pay off and I can make it as a professional.”