Plunkett assessing options

Liam Plunkett has been given permission to talk to other counties. He has a year to go on his Durham contract but has played only one Championship match this season after losing form and confidence.

"Liam has a year on his contract but the 28 day notice clause has been implemented to give him the opportunity to speak with other counties," a club spokesman told ESPNcricinfo.

Plunkett is not the only unsettled senior player at Durham. Ian Blackwell, who also has a year to go on his contract, is currently on loan at Warwickshire, while Steve Harmison, another man who is contracted next year, is back in the club's second team having had a loan spell at Yorkshire.

"It's been a frustrating year for Liam," Durham coach Geoff Cook said. "We have spoken to him and asked him what he wants to do with his future. If he feels there might be better opportunities elsewhere we wouldn't stand in his way."

Plunkett was charged with drink-driving earlier this year and is currently injury having played just once in the County Championship this season. He has taken 10 wickets across nine Twenty20 and five CB40 matches. He has played nine Tests for England, taking 23 wickets at 39.82. His record across 29 ODIs is better, with 39 wickets at 33.87.