Roach, 37, was a three-time Championship winner with Surrey between 2022-24, and took 97 wickets at 26.74 across his 30 first-class matches for the club. But only four of those wickets came during his two appearances at the start of last season and he was left out thereafter, with Surrey opting to move on.
“Everyone at the club wishes Kemar the best for the future, and thanks him for his incredible efforts in the Three Feathers,” Surrey said in a statement on Monday evening.
Instead, Roach will drop down into the second division of the Championship this summer and will hope to spearhead Durham’s attack in their bid for promotion. He is available for the first half of the season, until mid-June, and will join South Africa’s David Bedingham as one of Durham’s two permitted overseas players.
Marcus North, Durham’s director of cricket, described Roach as a “world-class performer” and a “perfect fit” to lead their seam attack. “Kemar brings proven quality with the ball but also a wealth of knowledge that will benefit our younger bowlers across his time at Durham,” North said.
“His ability to lead attacks in English conditions is something we value highly as we look to compete strongly in the County Championship. His professionalism, competitiveness and understanding of what it takes to win County Championship matches were key factors in the decision to bring him to the club.”
“I can’t wait to join Durham for the 2026 season,” Roach said. “Having played in the County Championship for the past five years, I know how serious a side Durham are… I hope to help Durham push for a trophy this summer and I think the group Durham have is very close to doing that.
“The County Championship for me is as close as playing Test cricket which is why I love it so much. We know how much of a tough season it is with the county grind, but the rewards are there when you win, and I hope to add that winning mentality to the Durham side. I look forward to joining up with the guys and getting around them while playing hard cricket.”
