Durham have deviated from the formula that won them the LV= County Championship last year by signing an overseas player: Australia bowling all-rounder John Hastings.
The tall seamer will be available in all competitions after his involvement in the Indian Premier League, whose final is on June 1, with Chennai Super Kings.
Hastings, known as ‘The Duke’, has played one Test, 11 one-day and three Twenty20 internationals but has not featured for his country at senior level since late 2012.
The 28-year-old, who represented Australia A when England Lions toured a year ago, will be new to county cricket and is Durham’s first overseas signing who will play in the championship since Shivnarine Chanderpaul in their 2008 and 2009 title-winning seasons.
Despite coming through the New South Wales youth system, Hastings has represented Victoria and Big Bash League outfit Melbourne Stars. He has taken 119 first-class wickets at an average of 26 and boasts a batting equivalent in excess of 22.
Durham first team coach Jon Lewis said: "We are excited about the arrival of John; he is skilful with the ball and can also contribute well with the bat. He will be a strong addition with the red and white ball and we look forward to welcoming him to Durham."