Durham County Cricket Club has bolstered its bowling attack by signing West Indian fast bowler Chemar Holder for the remaining three matches of the County Championship season. Holder, who has represented his country in both Test and ODI formats, will join the team for the upcoming round of fixtures, starting with the home game against Lancashire at Chester-le-Street on Monday.
The 26-year-old replaces New Zealand left-armer Neil Wagner, whose loan spell was cut short due to injury. Durham’s director of cricket, Marcus North, expressed his delight at securing Holder’s services for the crucial final stages of the season.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chemar to Durham,” North said. “He is a highly talented and experienced fast bowler who will bring a unique dimension to our bowling unit. With several international call-ups and injuries, it was imperative to add another seamer to our squad, and we are fortunate to have acquired a player of Holder’s caliber.”
Holder made his Test debut for the West Indies in 2020, showcasing his impressive pace and accuracy in the domestic first-class circuit. He has also represented Warwickshire in the County Championship, demonstrating his adaptability to English conditions.
After undergoing shoulder surgery in 2021, Holder spent over a year on the sidelines. However, he was recently awarded a franchise contract by Cricket West Indies, indicating the high regard in which he is held by the national selectors.
“I am excited to join Durham and experience county cricket once again,” Holder said. “I am committed to giving my all on the field and contributing to the team’s success. I am eager to get started and make a positive impact for Durham.”
Durham currently sits seventh in Division One of the County Championship, 24 points ahead of second-bottom Lancashire. Holder’s addition to the squad is expected to provide a significant boost to their hopes of securing a strong finish to the season.
