(Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images)
Batsman Keaton Jennings has expressed his ‘heartfelt gratitude’ to Durham after the confirmation that he will leave the county at the end of the season to sign for Lancashire.
Looking to get back into the England fold after being dropped after the South Africa series earlier this summer, Jennings has signed a four-year deal to play Division One cricket next season.
“My heartfelt gratitude goes to Durham County for the opportunities, support and guidance in enabling me to follow my dream of playing cricket in England,” Jennings, who has six Test caps for England, told Durham’s official website.
“My years at the county have been positive and inspirational and I leave with the happiest of memories and the closest of friends.
“Despite being career-driven, the decision to move on has been agonisingly difficult for me. “Everyone in the north has become, and will remain, “family” to me.
The 25-year-old follows Graham Onions in moving to Emirates Old Trafford as Durham continue to lose grip on their first-team stars.
Nottinghamshire were thought to be interested in Jennings after sealing the move of Paul Coughlin earlier this month, but were unable to complete the double swoop as they await confirmation of their promotion as Division Two champions.
As the fallout from Durham’s enforced relegation by the ECB as part of a financial bailout continues to take its toll, Jennings added: “I wish consolidation and success to Durham County Cricket Club.”
In leaving for the Red Rose, Lancashire coach Glen Chapple labelled Jennings as ‘a fantastic addition’ to his squad.
“I am very pleased Keaton has signed for Lancashire as I know there were other counties chasing his signature,” Chapple said.
“He’s exactly the type of character and player I feel will add strength and depth to our squad.
“Keaton is a fantastic addition for the club and he will be an important part of the squad, in all formats of the game, over the coming years.”
