Chief executive David Harker has said he is excited that Durham's first game of the 2009 season will be against the MCC at Lord's (beginning on 9 April).

The county champions then begin the defence of their title at home to Yorkshire on 22 April.

Harker told BBC Radio Newcastle: "Lord's is the traditional home of cricket and to appear there under any circumstances is always an honour.

"To be there as county champions is particularly special."

Harker also said that the pressure of being the defending champions will be a new experience for the North East county.

"It's a different sort of pressure," said Harker.

"A couple of years ago we held on to our first division status by about half a point.

"We've had some success since then and this time I think we're going to be the side to beat," he added.

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