Durham have appointed Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft as captain for the 2019 County Championship and One-Day Cup.

Bancroft completed a ban from international cricket late last year after being involved in the ball-tampering saga that marred Australia’s Test tour of South Africa. Batsmen David Warner and Steven Smith were also found guilty. Their suspensions will end later this year.

‘We’re delighted to have Cameron with us for the season, and we’re confident he has the attributes to lead this exciting young Durham dressing room,’ said head coach James Franklin.

‘He has invaluable experience at the top level, and has enjoyed a successful spell in England before during his time with Gloucestershire.

‘He’s proven since returning to first-class cricket over the last few months that he has the mental toughness, skill and attitude to excel at the highest level, and I’m sure he will relish the challenge we have at Durham this season.’

The 26-year-old Bancroft, though, won’t be available for Durham’s opening County Championship Division Two fixture against Derbyshire, which will start on 3 April. He will arrive for 11 April’s start against Sussex in Chester-le-Street.

‘Unfortunately, Bancroft will not be available until Durham’s second County Championship fixture against Sussex. In his absence, Alex Lees will captain the side for their Durham University MCCU fixture starting this Tuesday, and the Championship opener away at Derbyshire,’ read a statement from Durham Cricket.

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