Jack Burnham faces a 12-month ban after testing positive for a recreational drug. Durham announced on Wednesday that the 20-year-old batsman had failed a test after supplying a hair sample in September.
The news of an impending ban for their promising player is another blow for the club. Since they were relegated to Division Two of the County Championship a year ago as part of an ECB bailout, several players have left to further their careers elsewhere.
Durham have made it clear they will support Burnham during his suspension, as has the Professional Cricketers’ Association.
Burnham voiced his regret in a statement released by the club. “I am bitterly disappointed in my actions,” he said. “I’ve let my team-mates, members and supporters down. I will work exceptionally hard to retain my fitness and carry out the rehabilitation procedures that have been put in place.”
The statement added: “Durham will continue to support Jack and work alongside the PCA and England and Wales Cricket Board to give him the appropriate level of support.”
A statement from the PCA read: “We are aware of the situation surrounding Jack Burnham and we will continue to work closely with Durham and the ECB to support Jack. There is an illicit drugs policy in place and we are very much part of that policy. All players are made aware of the policy and the consequences of any breach during our programme of pre-season visits to the first-class counties and MCC Young Cricketers.”
