England fast bowler Mark Wood has signed to a new three-year contract to stay with Durham, giving the county a big boost following their recent ECB enforced relegation to division two.

A series of explosive bowling performances fired Durham to the NatWest T20 Blast final this year, and Wood also earned a Test central contract with England.

Currently sidelined with an ankle injury, Woods said: “I’m delighted to be honest; throughout the year, I was desperate to stay.

“Three years was one of my main drivers, I wanted to not just stay for one or two, I wanted to make sure I was here to make a difference for a long period of time.

“The recent setback we have had gives us a chance to make a big impact and hopefully along with my England duties, I can push the club forward in a good light.

“I’m a North East lad from the region, I want to make a difference for this club and I’ve been here since I was 16/17 years old so I’m delighted I can stay on longer and continue my Durham journey.”

Chief executive David Harker said: “We’re very pleased to have Mark’s services once again and a three-year deal shows commitment from both parties.

“There was a great willingness from both parties to get a new deal sorted and we are delighted to have got this over the line.

“His potential is vast and we’re glad to be supporting him throughout a time when he will be reaching the prime stages of his career.”