Gibbs to join Durham next season

Herschelle Gibbs is to join Durham next season, the club announced yesterday. Gibbs, who is currently preparing for South Africa's third Test against England at Trent Bridge, has scored 3344 runs in 47 Tests, including an impressive 179 in the first Test at Edgbaston. He has also made 135 one-day international appearances.

David Harker, Durham's chief executive, said: "We are delighted with the signing of such an experienced player and I am confident he will make a major impact on the field as well helping some of the younger players develop."

Bob Jackson, the Chairman, added: "Durham are committed to attracting the very best of overseas talent and Herschelle Gibbs continues this trend. I'm sure that Herschelle's aggressive style of batting will provide real entertainment to the Durham fans."

Gibbs follows his South Africa team-mate Dewald Pretorius, who played for Durham earlier this season before joining up with the Test squad, at Chester-le-Street.