Durham turn to all-rounder

Durham coach Paul Gerrard had no hesitation putting his Twickenham hopes in the hands of an England cricketer who has played just one and a half rugby matches this season.

Gordon Muchall was a regular as the team progressed to 1st XV level.Then, the call came for the all-rounder to tour India this winter with England Under 19s. He only reappeared as a rugby player in Durham's Under 18 Cup semi-final against Pangbourne.

The second-half replacement was a key figure as Durham came from behind to snatch a 10-10 draw and reach Twickenham for the first time, 2-1 on tries. Muchall is the only change for Saturday's final against Essex rivals Campion.

Skipper Nick Hooper reverts to centre where his exploits have won him a contract with Premiership Newcastle, who are also signing No.8 Jason Smithson, lock Tom Stockport and full back Tim Heslop. Durham could complete a north-east treble on Saturday. Newcastle won the Tetley's Bitter Cup and Northumbria University, with four Durham old boys, are in the BUSA Final at Twickenham today.