Harmison signs first professional Durham deal

Charlie Harmison, son of 2005 Ashes winner Steve, has signed a two-year deal with Durham.

Harmison, 18, is a fast bowler like his father, who made 63 Test appearances for England between 2002 and 2009.

He is the fourth son of members of the team which won the Ashes urn back after an 18-year wait to sign professional terms with a County Championship club.

Captain Michael Vaughan’s son Archie is with Somerset, while all-rounder Andrew Flintoff’s sons Rocky and Corey are at Lancashire and Kent respectively.

“I’m buzzing to have signed my first rookie deal,” Harmison told the club website.

“I’m looking forward to the hard work that lies ahead and hopefully contributing to helping the club to success in years to come.”

Steve Harmison was part of the Durham side that won the County Championship title in 2008 and 2009 and retired in 2013.

The Chester-le-Street side were promoted back to the top flight this season after winning the Division Two title.

Wicketkeeper-batter Robbie Bowman, 19, and batter Luke Symington, 18, have also signed rookie deals.