Jack Burnham: Durham batsman banned for a year after positive drugs test

Jack Burnham became the third youngest Durham centurion with 135 against Surrey in May 2016

Durham batsman Jack Burnham has been banned for a year after testing positive for a recreational drug.

The 20-year-old failed the test under the England and Wales Cricket Board's illicit drugs policy after providing a hair sample in September.

The club say Burnham will receive their support in tandem with the Professional Cricketers' Association and ECB.

"I'm bitterly disappointed in my actions, I've let my team, members and supporters down," Burnham said.

"I will work exceptionally hard to retain my fitness and carry out the rehabilitation procedures that have been put in place."

The length of the ban is consistent with the punishment given by the ECB for a third breach of regulations, and any further incidents would result in a three-year ban.

Burnham, a local academy product, has scored 1,018 runs in 26 first-class matches for Durham, and had been likely to feature in the England development squad this coming winter.

"We will continue to work closely with Durham and the ECB to support Jack," said the PCA in a statement.

"There is an illicit drugs policy in place and we are very much part of that policy.

"All current players are made aware of the policy and the consequences of any breaches of the policy, during our programme of pre-season visits to the first-class counties and MCC Young Cricketers."

Burnham signed a new contract with the county earlier this month.