Durham sign ex-New Zealand fast bowler Wagner

Neil Wagner took 260 wickets in 64 Tests for New Zealand at an average of 27.57

Durham have signed experienced former New Zealand fast bowler Neil Wagner until the end of the 2024 season.

The 38-year-old left-arm seamer will be available for Durham's final five County Championship matches as well as the remainder of the One-Day Cup.

Director of cricket Marcus North told the club website that he was "delighted" to sign the veteran paceman, who took 260 wickets in 64 Tests for the Black Caps.

“To be able to recruit a player with international experience is huge for us," North said.

“His left-arm pace will complement our bowling attack immensely and with over 800 first-class wickets to his name, we believe he is a quality signing who will only add a further competitive edge to our team."

Wagner, who retired from international cricket in February, has had previous stints in county cricket with Northamptonshire, Lancashire, Essex and, most recently, at Somerset last summer.

He said he was "grateful" for the chance to return to England and was looking forward to "adding to the success of the team" at Durham

Durham currently sit fifth in Division One of the County Championship following promotion in 2023 and defeated Lancashire in their opening fixture of the One-Day Cup on Wednesday.