Durham sign Gloucestershire pace bowler Bailey

Archie Bailey has taken 13 first-class wickets during his career so far

Durham have signed Gloucestershire fast bowler Archie Bailey on a three-year contract from next season.

The 20-year-old seamer signs his first professional deal having made his debut for Gloucestershire last season.

He claimed 4-30 against Middlesex at Lord's on his first appearance in a County Championship fixture last September.

"This is a big step in my career, and I'm ready to give everything I've got to contribute both on and off the field," Bailey said.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for me to grow as a player under some top tier coaches and be part of a team with such strong ambitions."

Bailey, son of Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning horse racing trainer Kim Bailey, signed his first rookie contract in 2023 and has also featured for the First Class Counties Select XI against Zimbabwe in May.

"We felt it was important to strengthen our fast-bowling ranks and Archie fits the bill perfectly as someone we can nurture and improve at Durham," director of cricket Marcus North said.

"We look forward to welcoming Archie to Durham in the winter."