Cameron Steel has extended his Durham contract until the end of the 2021 season.

The 23-year-old opener moved from Middlesex at the beginning of the 2017 campaign and has established himself as a talented top order batsman and capable wrist spinner in the Specsavers County Championship.

Steel has scored over 1500 runs in his first two years at Emirates Riverside and grabbed 17 wickets, he added 638 runs during the 2018 campaign including four 50s and an impressive 160 against Sussex at Emirates Riverside. Next summer he could be opening the batting with Australian Cameron Bancroft for the club.

“I’m delighted to have extended my contract at Durham and excited to continue my development here at Emirates Riverside,” Steel said. “It’s a special ground to play cricket at and my aim is to push for 1000 Specsavers County Championship runs next season, break into the white ball set-up and help Durham win some silverware.

“The dressing room is in great spirits and it’s an amazing opportunity to be able to play with such a good group.”

Head coach, Jon Lewis, said: “We’re delighted with the progress that Cameron has shown during his first two years here and I’m convinced he will continue to develop even further.

“He’s just 23 but has shown excellent maturity with his red ball batting and how he handles himself in the dressing room.

“He’s a great lad to have around the club and can learn a lot from Leesy and Cameron Bancroft - all three will be crucial to our promotion push next year.”