DURHAM yesterday confirmed that Steve Harmison will have a benefit next season, when he will be in the final year of his contract.

It is understood that the testimonial was written into the four-year deal he was awarded when it was clear that his England career was coming to an end.

Harmison, 34 next month, made his Durham debut at the age of 17 and has played in 129 first-class matches for the county, plus 63 Tests.

He was twice an Ashes winner, while his most memorable haul was at Sabina Park, Jamaica, where he took seven for 12 in 2004 on his way to being ranked number one bowler in the world. He was also named as one of the five Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 2005.

Durham's chief executive David Harker said: "Stephen has been an outstanding servant to English cricket, for Durham in particular, and everyone at the club wishes him great success with his benefit year."

Harmison added: "I have had some fantastic career highlights playing for Durham - winning the County Championship in 2008 is something I will never forget. It was an amazing day for the club and really showed what we were made of.

"I am privileged to have had such great support from Durham and our members throughout my career and the benefit year is a real honour.

"I am really looking forward to next season, getting fit and playing the game I love, which has been so kind to me over the years."