Park moves to Derbyshire

Garry Park has played 18 first-class Durham games

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Derbyshire have bolstered their squad ahead of the 2009 season with the signing of Garry Park from Durham on a two-year-contract.

The 25-year-old all-rounder signed as he goes in search of more first-team action after rejecting the opportunity of extending his four-year stay with the County Champions.

Head of cricket John Morris said: “I am delighted to say that we have added to our squad for next season with a player of the right age who was wanted by his current club but is desperate for the opportunity to play more first-team cricket.

“We want players here at Derbyshire County Cricket Club who are prepared to move in order to enhance their careers. Garry fits that bill perfectly and I am looking forward to working with him.”

Park added: “I am delighted and very grateful to be given this opportunity to join Derbyshire CCC. I look forward to the challenge ahead of me and the prospects of a hugely successful campaign next season.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Durham for all they have contributed over the last three years.”

A right-handed batsman and seam bowler, Park was born in South Africa but is English-qualified.

He has played 18 first-class matches for Durham, with his maiden first-class century, scored from 125 balls against Yorkshire in 2006, preserving Durham’s Division One status and contributed to his current batting average of 35.20.

Park has also scored four first-class fifties, played 16 one-day matches and nine Twenty20s for the county.

He is widely renowned as one of the best fielders on the county circuit and also has the capability to deputise behind the stumps should the need arise.

Park dismisses Andrew Flintoff first ball in his only championship appearance for Durham this season

Durham head coach Geoff Cook revealed Park turned down a new two-year deal at the Riverside.

Cook said: “We are disappointed that Garry decided not to take up our offer of a two-year contract, however we fully understand his reasons for doing so as he is keen to guarantee a regular place in the first eleven.

“Competition for places in a successful team is particularly strong and no one can be guaranteed a place in our starting eleven.

“Garry has made some excellent contributions to the Durham side and we would like to wish him the very best of luck for the future.”

Durham chief executive David Harker added: “There will always be players who are disappointed at the lack of opportunities available for obtaining a place in the first team.

“The Durham side is a particularly strong one which is demonstrated by the success of both the first and second team, with both of them winning trophies this season.

“Competition for places is an important factor to ensure that we keep moving forward and continue to field the strongest possible sides.”