Another year at the Riverside for Durham's own Raine man

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 16, 2026

Durham Cricket has extended Ben Raine’s contract through the 2028 season, securing the local all-rounder who has been a key player since his 2019 return. Raine’s ongoing presence bolsters the team’s bowling attack and leadership as he continues to be one of the club’s top wicket-takers and a valuable contributor in all formats.

Durham Cricket has secured the services of local talent Ben Raine for an additional year, extending his contract through the 2028 season. The 34-year-old all-rounder, a product of Durham’s Academy, had been scheduled to complete his current deal at the end of this year but has chosen to remain with his boyhood club.

Raine has been a pivotal figure for Durham since rejoining from Leicestershire in 2019. He is approaching 350 first-class wickets for the county, boasting 14 five-wicket hauls during his tenure. His tally of 344 first-class wickets ranks fifth in Durham’s history, while in the T20 format, he has surpassed Gareth Breese to become the club’s leading wicket-taker with 102 dismissals.

The bowler’s recent form has been strong, highlighted by his 44 wickets in the 2025 County Championship, making him Durham’s top wicket-taker that season. Over his career, Raine has amassed 546 first-class wickets, with his best innings figures of 6 for 27 achieved against Sussex in 2019.

Raine’s batting credentials complement his bowling, with more than 4,500 runs in first-class cricket. In May 2026, he reached his third County Championship century, a personal best of 106 against Kent at Beckenham. His T20 record also features two five-wicket hauls and a rapid century scored off 46 balls against Birmingham Bears in 2018—a mark that remains the second fastest T20 hundred by an English player. He has taken 142 wickets in the Blast competition to date.

Reflecting on the extension, Raine expressed enthusiasm for continuing his career at Durham. “Playing for Durham is so much fun and at the moment I am really enjoying my cricket,” he said. “I can’t wait for the next couple of years with this group.”

Durham’s head coach Ryan Campbell highlighted Raine’s integral role both on and off the field. “Ben epitomizes what Durham Cricket stands for,” Campbell said. “Since I have been at the club, he has been key to our success in red and white ball cricket. Beyond his consistent performances, his leadership is outstanding. We look forward to him continuing to contribute across all formats in the years ahead.”

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