Durham were relegated to Division Two on the final day of the 2025 County Championship season. Durham have cancelled their pre-season tour of Abu Dhabi amid the escalating conflict in the Gulf. On Saturday the US and Israel began strikes on Iran, which has responded by launching attacks on US-allied states in the region.

Durham's men's squad had been set to travel to the United Arab Emirates next Monday with their women's side leaving two weeks later on 23 March.

"The safety and wellbeing of our players and staff is always our absolute priority," director of cricket Marcus North said. "We have been monitoring the situation closely alongside the relevant authorities and, after careful consideration, we believe this is the right decision."

Durham will now look to make alternative plans "to ensure the squad is fully ready for the start of the season," North added. The opening round of the 2026 County Championship season begins on Friday, 3 April.

"We will make a further announcement in due course on our scheduled women's tour. We will continue to assess all information available to us and make decisions in the best interests of everyone involved," North added. "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the conflict in the region at this difficult time."

First government flight for UK nationals due to leave Middle East.