Opening batsman Sean Dickson has rejected a contract extension at Kent Cricket and is leaving the club.

The 28-year-old South African will join Durham ahead of the new 2020 domestic season, initially on loan.

Dickson made his Kent debut in 2015 and made 120 appearances for the county, scoring 4,450 runs.

The right-hander, who also took an impressive 39 catches for Kent in the 2018 season, will join Durham on a permanent basis from November 1 after agreeing a two-year deal.

Director of cricket Paul Downton said: “Sean has been a good servant to Kent Cricket during his four seasons here, both with the bat and in the field.

“His attitude on and off the field has been exemplary and everyone associated with the Club wishes Sean all the best for the future.”

Durham’s director of cricket Marcus North said: “We’re delighted that Sean has signed for Durham and we have been able to secure the signature of a proven performer in English Cricket.

“Sean’s record in first-class cricket is exceptional, with a track record of scoring big hundreds and a reputation as one of the best fielders in the country, he will bring additional experience and quality to the Durham squad.

“We look forward to welcoming Sean to the North East and seeing him make a big impact at Emirates Riverside.”

Kent are back in training ahead of the new season, which begins in August with the four-day Bob Willis Trophy competition. They played an intra-squad game this week and face Essex in a practice game next week.

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