Teenager Minto signs pro contract with Durham

Left-arm bowler James Minto in action for Durham in the Championship last seasonImage source, Rex Features
Image caption,

James Minto has taken two wickets in two Championship appearances for Durham

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Young fast bowler James Minto has signed a first professional contract with Durham, with his rookie deal running until the end of the 2026 season.

Minto was handed his first-class debut last September against Surrey at Kia Oval when still only 16, and became the second youngest bowler since World War Two to take a wicket.

The left-armer, now 17, played for England Under-19s on their tour of South Africa in the winter.

"It's great to see James rewarded for the excellent performances he has put in for Durham over the last couple of seasons," said, external Durham's director of cricket Marcus North.

"He has impressed with his skills but his maturity and match awareness at just 17 has been impressive."