Durham County Cricket Club Explained
A guide to Durham County Cricket Club — the newest first-class county, their rapid rise to County Championship titles, and their role in English cricket development.
About Durham County Cricket Club
Durham County Cricket Club became England's newest first-class county when they gained first-class status in 1991. Despite being the youngest county, Durham rapidly established themselves as genuine contenders, winning three County Championship titles in less than two decades of first-class competition.
Rapid Rise and Championship Success
Durham's three County Championship titles came in 2008, 2009, and 2013 — a remarkable achievement for a club that had only been playing first-class cricket for 17 years when they won their first title. Their rise was driven by aggressive recruitment of international players and strong development of local northeast England talent.
Emirate Riverside — Home Ground
Durham play at the Seat Unique Riverside (previously Emirates Riverside and Riverside Cricket Ground) in Chester-le-Street, County Durham. The ground hosted international cricket including England Test matches and One Day Internationals. It is one of England's newest major cricket venues and was built specifically for Durham's first-class era.
Key Players
Steve Harmison was Durham's most celebrated bowling product — the former England fast bowler from Ashington, Northumberland, played his county cricket for Durham throughout his career. Paul Collingwood, another northeast Englander, captained Durham and led England in white-ball cricket. Ben Stokes also played for Durham before his England career accelerated.
Frequently asked questions
How many County Championship titles has Durham won?
Durham have won three County Championship titles — in 2008, 2009, and 2013 — remarkable for a county that only became first-class in 1991.
Who are Durham's most famous players?
Steve Harmison, Paul Collingwood, and Ben Stokes are Durham's most famous products — all of whom went on to significant England careers.
Did Durham have financial difficulties?
Yes. Durham experienced severe financial difficulties in 2016 which led to a points deduction, relegation to Division Two of the County Championship, and a reduction of their international hosting rights. They have since rebuilt and returned to Division One.