Durham land Warner

Durham have completed the signing of Australia one-day specialist David Warner for the Twenty20 Cup.

The powerful left-handed batsman, who shot to fame after hitting 89 off 43 balls on his international debut last month, will fill the role of overseas player for the duration of the tournament in May and June.

Warner, 22, is due to arrive at the Riverside after his stint in the Indian Premier League comes to an end. He will play for Delhi Daredevils alongside soon-to-be Durham team-mate Paul Collingwood.

“I’ve heard great things about Durham and I’m delighted to be joining them later this year,” Warner said.

“The team has done really well recently and I want to be able to play a major role in making sure that success continues.

David Warner has forged a reputation as an explosive batsman in one-day cricket

“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.”

Warner became the first player since 1877 to represent Australia without having played a first-class game when he made his debut in a Twenty20 international against South Africa at the MCG on January 11.

He has also played six one-day internationals and averages 64 in eight one-day games for New South Wales.

Durham 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 in all competitions.”

Shivnarine Chanderpaul will assume overseas responsibilities from Warner following the completion of West Indies’ tour of England.