Kemar Roach has agreed a short-term deal with Durham, covering the opening stretch of the 2026 County Championship and quietly drawing a line under five seasons at Surrey. The 37-year-old West Indies seamer will be available from April until mid-June, slotting in alongside South Africa batter David Bedingham as the club’s second overseas player.
Surrey confirmed his departure late on Monday. “Everyone at the club wishes Kemar the best for the future, and thanks him for his incredible efforts in the Three Feathers,” the statement read. It ends a stint that produced three Division One titles (2022-24) and 97 wickets at 26.74, though only four of those scalps came in two early-season outings last year.
Durham, back in Division Two after relegation in 2025, believe Roach’s know-how will lead a relatively young pace group. Director of cricket Marcus North called him a “world-class performer” and, crucially, “a perfect fit” for English April and May pitches. “Kemar brings proven quality with the ball but also a wealth of knowledge that will benefit our younger bowlers across his time at Durham,” North said. “His ability to lead attacks in English conditions is something we value highly as we look to compete strongly in the County Championship. His professionalism, competitiveness and understanding of what it takes to win County Championship matches were key factors in the decision to bring him to the club.”
Recent evidence suggests there is still some petrol in the tank. On West Indies’ tour of New Zealand before Christmas, Roach claimed seven wickets in the first Test and dug out an unbeaten 58 to secure a draw. A hamstring strain curtailed his series after two more wickets in the second match, yet the injury was minor and the winter rest complete.
The player himself sounded both respectful and upbeat. “I can’t wait to join Durham for the 2026 season,” he said. “Having played in the County Championship for the past five years, I know how serious a side Durham are… I hope to help Durham push for a trophy this summer and I think the group Durham have is very close to doing that. The County Championship for me is as close as playing Test cricket which is why I love it so much. We know how much of a tough season it is with the county grind, but the rewards are there when you win, and I hope to add that winning mentality to the Durham side. I look forward to joining up with the guys and getting around them while playing hard cricket.”
Durham’s first Division Two fixture is away at Gloucestershire on 9 April; Roach is pencilled in for that match and up to six more before his contract expires. After that, the club will reassess its overseas balance. For now, the hope is simple: Roach shares his craft, bowls plenty of overs, and helps nudge a promotion push back on track.
