Michael di Venuto has joined Durham as their only overseas player for the 2007 season. di Venuto left Derbyshire at the end of the recent summer and will replace Jimmy Maher in the north east.

From 2008 counties will only be able to field one overseas player but Martyn Moxon, the Durham coach, says the club's position is open to review next season.

Will Smith, the former Nottinghamshire batsman, has also joined the club as has Mitchell Claydon, who was recently released by Yorkshire. Will Gidman, the brother of Alex, has also become part of the squad.

"The decision to go for one overseas player at the start of the season is primarily made to give our young talent the opportunity they have earned," said Moxon. "Playing two overseas players reduces the chances our emerging players get to develop their skills."