Mustard made his first class debut for Durham in 2002

Durham have announced Phil Mustard will replace Will Smith as captain of the club with immediate effect.

Durham have made a poor start to their Championship season and are 55 points behind leaders Nottinghamshire after their innings defeat at Trent Bridge.

Club chairman Clive Leach said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Will Smith for his hard work and success in the past season.

"Appointing Phil was an easy task, he is totally committed to Durham."

Smith led Durham to the County Championship title last season after succeeding Dale Benkenstein in November 2008, who himself had skippered the side to four-day success that year.

I'm honoured to have been offered the role of captain at the club where I came up through the academy and have spent the whole of my professional career Phil Mustard

"I am disappointed that things have not worked out as captain," said Smith.

"I will remain fully committed to ensuring that the club continue to prosper under Phil's guidance.

"He will add great spirit and character to the role and it is fitting that a North East lad is entrusted with it."

Mustard said: "I'm honoured to have been offered the role of captain at the club where I came up through the academy and have spent the whole of my professional career.

"I'm confident that with the help and support of my senior experienced, team mates we'll go from strength to strength."

Head coach Geoff Cook added, "I'm delighted that Phil has accepted the role.

"This adjustment is an opportune time for us to kick-start our season while at the same time giving Phil the chance to move his career up to the next stage."

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