Ben McKinney

Ben McKinney crowned his breakthrough 2024 campaign by extending his contract until the end of the 2026 campaign.

After signing his first professional deal in 2023, McKinney hit new heights last year and has been rewarded with a one-year extension.

In his second County Championship match, the 21-year-old smashed an experienced Nottinghamshire bowling attack around the park at Seat Unique Riverside on his way to a magnificent maiden first-class century, scoring 121 from 129 balls.

McKinney was the aggressor in the early stages of the day as the pair put on 189 runs for the first wicket, Durham’s highest opening stand of the season.

The left-handed batter was excellent throughout his innings and laid a fantastic foundation for Durham, dominating with some great shots, particularly on the offside. McKinney brought up his maiden first-class hundred from 117 balls with a beautiful cover drive.

The former England Under 19s captain enjoyed a fruitful Metro Bank One Day Cup campaign as Durham’s second-highest run-scorer with 291 at an average of 48.5, including his maiden professional century in a victory over Kent at Canterbury.

McKinney hit a superb 115 from 116 balls, including three sixes and 13 fours. He played with elegance and brutality, offering only the occasional half-chance.

McKinney nudged Marcus O’Riordan through midwicket to reach three figures in 103 balls before he dumped Matt Parkinson for a six that landed in the Old Dover Road Gardens.

The Seaham youngster rounded off his winter abroad with an outstanding century against Australia A in Sydney, his second first-class hundred. McKinney provided the highlight for the Lions with a run-a-ball 110, and he reached his century with his third six – a forceful pull off Xavier Bartlett.