WICKETKEEPER Phil Mustard has extended his contract with county champions Durham until the end of the 2012 season.

Mustard, who has played ten one-day internationals and two Twenty20 matches for England, has signed a oneyear extension to his Riverside deal.

He was named the NatWest Pro40 Division One most valuable player in the 2009 season, averaging over 50 in the competition, as well as claiming the most dismissals by a keeper in the LV County Championship.

Mustard said: ‘‘It’s been fantastic to be a part of Durham’s success over the past few seasons and I wanted to demonstrate my commitment to the club for the coming years by signing on the dotted line for an extra year.

“I’ve developed a lot over the last season and I feel that my contribution to the side is only going to improve.’’ Durham head coach Geoff Cook added: ‘‘Phil has matured a great deal over the season, not only with his keeping but as a batsman.

“He is undoubtedly an excellent asset behind the stumps as well as a great character to have in the dressing room.’’ Meanwhile, the curtainraiser to next season between Durham and the MCC, traditionally held at Lord’s, could next year be played with pink balls under lights in Abu Dhabi, according to MCC’s chief executive.

Keith Bradshaw claims MCC are thinking about the changes for next season’s opener.

‘‘It is definitely an option we are considering,’’ Bradshaw said.

‘‘We’re determined to organise some three or four-day cricket under lights using a pink ball and this is a good opportunity.”