By Oliver Brett

We've got experienced players, young players and homegrown players Phil Mustard

Durham's Phil Mustard said the team were happy enough with their runners-up position following the fascinating climax to the 2007 County Championship.

Sussex emerged on top of the pile, but Mustard, who flies to Sri Lanka on Sunday to join up with England, told BBC Sport Durham were equally thrilled.

The wicket-keeper, also an explosive left-handed batsman said: "We scraped through last year by half a point.

"To go from the relegation zone to second is a remarkable achievement."

Durham beat Kent on Saturday, but ultimately lost out when Sussex overcame Worcestershire.

Mustard said: "We thought we had a good chance after beating Kent.

"We thought Worcester might have batted quite a long time but obviously Sussex bowled them out.

"We've got a good balanced side at the moment, with experienced players, young players and the homegrown players."

Durham also lifted the Friends Provident Trophy in August, after beating Hampshire in the final at Lord's.