Batsman Cameron Bancroft to lead Durham

Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has been appointed to captain Durham for the upcoming county season as the team sees attributes of 'mental toughness, skill and attitude' in him.

Bancroft, who replaces Paul Collingwood, returned to first-class last December after a nine-month suspension imposed on him by Cricket Australia over his role in the ball-tampering scandal in Newlands, ICC reported.

The 26-year-old played in the Big Bash League (BBL) before scoring a century and a couple of fifties in the Sheffield Shield since his return.

"We are confident he has the attributes to lead. He has invaluable experience at the top level and has enjoyed a successful spell in England before, during his time with Gloucestershire," coach James Franklin said.

"He has proven since returning to first-class cricket over the last few months that he has the mental toughness, skill, and attitude to excel at the highest level and I am sure he will relish the challenge we have at Durham this season," he added.

Bancroft will, however, miss the first Championship match against Derbyshire, starting April 5, due to commitments with Western Australia but will take over the reins thereafter. He is likely to play until late July as he may earn a recall for the Ashes in England, beginning August 1.