Blackwell joins Durham

All-rounder heading north

Last updated: 18th November 2008

Blackwell joins Durham

Blackwell: 21 centuries

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Former England all-rounder Ian Blackwell has signed for Durham from Somerset on a three-year deal.

The 30-year-old left-arm spinner and middle-order batsman was a member of the Somerset team which helped to push Durham all the way into the final round of County Championship matches, before the northerners clinched their maiden title in September.

He has one Test cap and has played for England in 34 one-day internationals, most recently in India in April 2006

Blackwell began his career with his native Derbyshire and has taken 239 first-class wickets and hit 21 first-class centuries.

Durham head coach Geoff Cook said: "With Durham looking to constantly improve our squad, when it became clear Ian was available we grabbed the chance of signing him.

"I think it's important to sign players of Ian's quality and experience to continue the progress of the squad in all forms of the game."

Durham chief executive David Harker added: "We were delighted to win the LV County Championship last season.

"But it is important that we learn lessons and continue to add quality players, such as Ian, to the squad when they become available."