Goddard was understudy to Phil Mustard at Durham

Derbyshire have re-signed their former wicketkeeper Lee Goddard from Durham.

Goddard, 26, who has spent the last three seasons as Phil Mustard's understudy at the Riverside, has signed a one-year deal.

"Three years at Durham have been a good experience," said Goddard. "I am returning a better player."

Goddard, who began his career with Derbyshire in 2004, will take over from Jamie Pipe who has retired to become the team's physiotherapist in 2010.

Pipe, who has made more than 50 appearances for the club, averages an impressive 36.92 with the bat, as well as taking 142 catches.

It is great for us to have such an excellent team man remaining involved John Morris on Jamie Pipe

The 31-year-old studied for a physiotherapy degree on a part-time basis during his playing career.

And he will take over as head physio from David Beakley who is leaving for a position with the Cricket Australia Academy at the end of the season.

Head of cricket John Morris is delighted with both Goddard's arrival and the fact Pipe is staying.

"Lee has joined us having spent time at a successful club," said Morris. "And I hope that he will bring some of that winning mentality to Derbyshire.

"And it is great for us to have such an excellent team man as Jamie Pipe remaining involved at the end of his playing career."

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