Durham opt for continuity as Campbell moves upstairs
Written by Bradley Robson on 13th October 2026
Durham Cricket have confirmed head coach Ryan Campbell is set to move into the club’s vacant director of cricket and high performance role.
The 54-year-old former Australia wicketkeeper was appointed in 2022, and has overseen four seasons of relative success in Chester-le-Street following a turbulent spell under previous boss James Franklin.
Campbell’s change of responsibilities at Durham confirms the club’s intentions to maintain their positive momentum, following a 2026 campaign in which the English game’s most northerly county confirmed an immediate return back to Division One of the County Championship as undefeated second tier champions.
The Telegraph’s Deputy Cricket Correspondent, Will Macpherson, expects a “more of the same” approach from Durham next season and beyond.
“Campbell’s move definitely suggests continuity,” Macpherson said. “Durham know they are well equipped to challenge at the top end of Division One immediately. A few big clubs are going through slumps, and they could capitalise. Given Ben Stokes’ availability, a top half finish should be the minimum expected.”
On the search for Campbell’s predecessor, Macpherson explained: “The names I have heard linked to the job are very much linked to the club already. I don’t expect anything totally new.”
The overriding feeling of positivity around the club is evident, and Rob Rush – one of Durham’s regular in-house commentators and a Junior Assistant Producer at Sky Sports – has praised the club’s decision to keep Campbell in the building as a leading figure.
“Ryan is not the type of person you’re just going to let walk out the door” was the reaction of Rush when approached about the situation – a clear indication of just how well-thought of the Aussie is around the Riverside Ground.
“There’s no need to take a risk by making a major change in direction,” he added. “The fact that he’s now in his new role can only be a good thing for the recruitment, player development, and the core playing principles.”
Only time will tell how Durham fare back among the elites of the county game – but one thing’s for sure, they have given themselves a genuine, settled platform to build on in 2027.
