Mustard in for long haul at Durham

5 November 2009

Phil Mustard laid waste to opposing attacks in the NatWest Pro40, most thrillingly during his 102 against Essex

Durham wicketkeeper Phil Mustard has signed a one-year contract extension, keeping him at the Riverside until the end of the 2012 season.

Mustard, 27, from Sunderland, has played 10 one-day internationals and two Twenty20 matches for England, and was a vital player in their retention of the LV= County Championship title.

In partnership with Ian Blackwell, he was a constant threat at the top of the order in limited-overs cricket for the Dynamos this season, scoring 675 runs in the Friends Provident Trophy and NatWest Pro40.

Mustard was named the Pro40 Division One MVP in 2009, averaging over 50 in the competition and blasting 102 versus Essex at Chester-le-Street.

Mustard said: “It’s been fantastic to be a part of Durham’s success over the past few seasons and I wanted to demonstrate my commitment to the club for the coming years by signing on the dotted line for an extra year.

“I’ve developed a lot over the last season and I feel that my contribution to the side is only going to improve.”

Durham head coach Geoff Cook added: “Phil has matured a great deal over the season, not only with his keeping but as a batsman.

“He has taken on the responsibility of opening the batting in the one-day competition and Twenty20 Cup and delivered some superb results. He is undoubtedly an excellent asset behind the stumps as well as a great character to have in the dressing room.”