Snooker great Jimmy White’s grandson signs pro deal as Surrey cricketer

The grandson of snooker legend Jimmy White has signed his first professional contract as a cricketer with English side Surrey.

White was a six-time World Championship finalist with a flamboyant style of play that made him one of snooker’s most popular stars.

The family’s sporting excellence is being continued by 17-year-old Ralphie Albert, who has agreed a long-term deal with Surrey after emerging from the club’s academy.

Already an England Under-19 regular, Albert is well aware of his grandfather’s exploits on the green baize, but he insists he is not motivated by trying to emulate White’s success.

“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 turns 18 next week, made his professional debut in the One-Day Cup in August.

In his second match he hit 96 off 75 balls against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge.

He also made 63 and took two wickets with his left-arm spin on his first-class debut against Hampshire last month.

“Pulling on the Surrey shirt this summer was a proud day for my family and me,” Albert said.

Chris Taylor, Surrey’s head of talent pathway, added: “I have high hopes for Ralphie and am really excited to see his journey unfold at Surrey.”