Ryan Campbell appointed Durham head coach, signs three-year deal

The 50-year-old, who previously coached the Netherlands national side, replaces James Franklin, who stepped down from the position in September

Ryan Campbell has been appointed head coach of Durham, putting pen to paper on a three-year deal.

The 50-year-old replaces James Franklin, who left the club in September to pursue other opportunities.

Campbell previously spent four years as head coach of the Netherlands, securing qualification for three consecutive T20 World Cups (2021, 2022 and 2024) during his time at the helm. The former Australia international's coaching CV also includes a stint with Hong Kong.

As a player, Campbell represented Australia in two ODIs and three T20Is as well as chalking up 173 appearances for Western Australia in all formats.

Campbell hopes to introduce a "no fear style of cricket” to Chester-le-Street, commenting: "I am extremely honoured to be appointed Durham's head coach and I can't wait to get started.

^{Campbell, a wicketkeeper-batter, enjoyed a long career with Western Australia [Paul Kane/Getty Images]}

"I will be working with some of England's best cricketers as well as a young squad full of talent and I hope to bring an attacking, no fear style of cricket to the club.

"I also look forward to working with Marcus North to lead Durham to future success."

North, Durham's director of cricket, added: "Following an extensive recruitment process, it became clear that Ryan was the best fit for Durham and the county. Ryan comes to Durham with an excellent reputation following a successful period as the Netherlands head coach.

"I look forward to working with him and continue to build on the foundations laid during the past four years with this exciting group of players."

Meanwhile, chief executive, Tim Bostock, believes Campbell will put the club in a position "to challenge for silverware".

"We're delighted that Ryan has agreed to become our new head coach and we are hugely excited to welcome him to Durham in the new year," he said. "He joins us with a wealth of experience and knowledge, and I believe he is the perfect fit for Durham.

"Ryan is the right person to move us forward in our next chapter as we build on James Franklin's work at Durham over the last four seasons, hopefully putting us in the best position to challenge for silverware over the next few years."