Durham Cricket are delighted to announce the return of former Club Captain and Hall of Famer Dale Benkenstein as Men’s Batting Consultant.
Benkenstein joined up with the Durham squad last month after returning from his Assistant Coach role with Pretoria Capitals, finishing as runners-up in the 2026 edition of the SA20.
A legend of Durham Cricket, the former South Africa international joined the Club in 2005 and captained Durham to a first major trophy in 2007, before going onto guide the county to successive Championship titles in 2008 and 2009.
Regarded as one of Durham’s true greats Benkenstein retired as Durham’s highest run-scorer in first-class cricket, and one of the most successful and respected captains in Durham’s history.
He made 137 appearances for the club, scoring 9,055 runs at an average of 45.96 and was inducted into the Durham Hall of Fame in 2024.
Since his retirement from professional cricket, Benkenstein has gained a wealth of experience in coaching with Head Coach roles at Lancashire, Gloucestershire and Hampshire along with batting roles domestically in South Africa.
Benkenstein added: “I have very special memories of Durham and my time with the County as a player .
“I am excited to start a new chapter back at the Riverside, I have been made to feel at home by Marcus and Ryan and the many familiar faces who are still here from my playing days.
“I have already enjoyed getting to work with Ryan and the men’s squad and I am equally excited to work with Will Gidman’s talented academy and pathway players that will be the future of the club.”
Marcus North, Director of Cricket said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Dale back to the Club.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for him to return home to a club he knows inside out, and he will bring a huge amount of insight and experience to the group as we approach the 2026 season.
“Everyone recognises what a legend he is at this Club, having been one of our most successful captains and players. We’re looking forward to seeing him work closely with our talented batters throughout the season.”