Durham bring in Myburgh

Durham have signed South African batsman Johann Myburgh as their second overseas player for the Friends Life t20. Myburgh impressed during a trial for the club, hitting 30 and 48 not out against Lancashire second XI and taking two wickets with his part-time offspin.

Myburgh, who has previously played for Hampshire, could make his Durham debut on Friday against Yorkshire, after being included in a 13-man squad for the match at Headingley. The 31-year-old has a Twenty20 average of 29.55, with a top score of 80 in 36 matches, and will provide cover for the injured Paul Collingwood.

"It's been a great few days with Durham already and I'm looking forward to getting started in the T20," Myburgh said. "I felt in good shape in the warm-up games and scored a few runs so hopefully I can continue to perform well and post some good scores for the team. I know Durham have big aspirations in the competition after reaching the quarter-finals last year and I want to be contributing to more success."

Geoff Cook, Durham's head coach, added: "It's great to have Johann join us for the duration of the T20 competition. He has a great attitude and I was impressed by his performance for us this week, not just with the bat but in the field too. With Paul Collingwood injured he is an experienced batsmen to add that extra dimension to our batting line up and also offers us an extra bowling option."

Herschelle Gibbs, Durham's other overseas player, is also in line to make his first appearance for the county at Yorkshire, while fast bowler Graham Onions will be available after returning from England duty in the third Test against West Indies.