Essex Signs Durham All-Rounder Mitchell Killeen on Two-Year Deal

Essex Cricket has signed 20-year-old Mitchell Killeen from Durham on a two-year deal starting after the 2025 season, marking a significant addition to their bowling attack. Killeen, a right-arm seam bowler and right-handed batsman, made his List A debut at 17 and impressed with a five-wicket haul on his County Championship debut for Durham earlier this year. Despite being offered a contract extension by Durham, Killeen chose to move to Essex, attracted by the club's recent success and the project led by director of cricket Chris Silverwood. He is the son of former Durham seamer and England bowling consultant Neil Killeen, and has represented England Under-19s, highlighting his growing reputation. Durham’s director of cricket Marcus North expressed disappointment at losing Killeen but understood his desire for a new challenge. Essex CEO Dan Feist emphasized Killeen’s potential to develop further and strengthen Essex’s squad depth.