Australian batsman Martin Love will return to the Riverside next season after renewing his contract with Durham.

Following a successful season with the Club, scoring 1,364 Championship runs at an average of 50.51 last season, Martin was offered a contract for 2002. With a tough winter playing for Queensland, Martin was unsure how his body would cope without a break, but he is sure that he'll be fit and raring to go.

Martin, speaking from Queensland said: "I am looking forward to returning to Durham and meeting up with my team mates again. I hope we continue our form in the one day game; I would love to reach a Lords finals, however we must be competitive in the County Championship and push for promotion."

Martyn Moxon, First Team Coach, said: "We are delighted that Martin has signed his contract for 2002. His return to the Club will give us the continuity that the side needs to build on this year's success. His professional attitude is a great example to our young squad."

© Durham CCC