Australian fast bowler Ashley Noffke will play county cricket for Durham next year, the English club announced on Tuesday.

Alongside Mike Hussey, Noffke becomes the second overseas player to have signed for Durham for the 2005 season.

In 2003, Noffke took 45 wickets in eight games for Middlesex.

"I am really excited about joining Durham," said Noffke.

"Their performance in the National League this year indicates that there is huge potential in this squad and promotion should be in our sights for both forms of cricket next season. I am looking forward to playing a major role in helping the squad to achieve this."