Warner, 22, was the first Australian player to debut for his country without any first class experience since 1877 and he demonstrated his quality, hitting a 43 ball 89 when Australia played South Africa in an international Twenty20 match in January. Warner already has an average of 64.6 after playing in just eight one day games for New South Wales.
Warner, who is contracted to the Delhi Daredevils in the IPL, where he will play alongside Durham and England star Paul Collingwood, will arrive at Riverside once his IPL commitments come to an end towards the end of May and will remain at Durham for the duration of the domestic Twenty 20 Cup competition. Shivnarine Chanderpaul will fill the overseas slot once his international commitments come to an end in June.
On signing for Durham, David Warner said, “I’ve heard great things about Durham and I’m delighted to be joining them later this year. The team has done really well recently and I want to be able to play a major role in making sure that success continues. I enjoy playing Twenty20 cricket and to be brought in especially to play in the UK’s domestic competition is a real honour and challenge. I can’t wait!”
Durham County Cricket Club Chief Executive, David Harker, said, “It is a real coup for us to sign someone of David’s talent. His skill in the limited overs format of the game is clear to see and his performances have really caught the attention of the cricketing world. We are delighted to have him on board and we are sure that he will be a major force in our Twenty20 side.
“After reaching the Twenty20 Cup finals day last year we are determined to continue adding quality players to the squad to ensure the continued progress of Durham County Cricket Club in all competitions”
Tuesday 26 May v Derbyshire Phantoms
Friday 29 May v Leicestershire Foxes
Sunday 31 May v Notts Outlaws
Wednesday 24 June v Yorkshire Carnegie
Friday 26 June v Lancashire Lightning
Five Match passes can be purchased for £40 for adults and £20 for juniors. Individual match tickets are also available. For more details or to book tickets visit www.durhamcricket.co.uk or contact the Box Office on 0844 499 4466.