Jimmy White's grandson signs first professional contract as he takes up rival sport

Ralphie Albert, the 17-year-old grandson of snooker legend Jimmy White, has inked his first professional cricket contract with Surrey. White, a six-time World Snooker Championship finalist and still a beloved figure in the sport, will now watch as his grandson aims to continue the family's sporting legacy.

Albert, a regular in England's Under-19s team, has secured a multi-year deal with Surrey after rising through the club's academy ranks, but he is set on forging his own path. "I wouldn't say there's a need to prove myself," Albert told BBC Sport. "It's a great thing that he's my grandad, an elite sportsman.

"I don't see what is being said. There are articles talking about us but I'm not deep into the comparison or making a name for myself. I'll just keep doing what I'm doing and see what happens."

Albert, who celebrates his 18th birthday next week, made his professional debut in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup in August. In his second match, he smashed 96 off 75 balls against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge.

He also scored 63 and claimed two wickets with his left-arm spin on his first-class debut against Hampshire last month, although Surrey fell short of the County Championship title.

"I'm thrilled to sign my first professional contract with the club," Albert added. "Pulling on the Surrey shirt this summer was a proud day for my family and me.

"Being around the first team set-up was a brilliant experience and I'm excited to be around the group more often."

Albert, who represents Banstead in the Surrey Cricket Championship, will juggle his club responsibilities with his final year at Epsom College.

Chris Taylor, Surrey's head of talent pathway, expressed: "We're delighted that Ralphie has signed a professional contract at Surrey. He's shown a good temperament as a genuine all-rounder.

"I have high hopes for Ralphie and am really excited to see his journey unfold at Surrey."