Onions, who made over 250 appearances for Durham in all formats between 2004 and 2017, was instrumental in the club’s glory years, playing a key role in three County Championship titles between 2008 and 2013, and the Cup of one day in 2014.
He then moved to Lancashire for the final years of his career, helping them win the 2019 Division Two title before taking over as bowling coach following his retirement in 2020.
Over the course of his career, he claimed 527 first-class wickets for Durham, a haul second only to Chris Rushworth, and a further 104 in 23 matches for Lancashire at 20.73. He also played in nine Tests for England between 2009 and 2012, claiming 32 wickets at 29.90.
“I am grateful and excited for the opportunity to return to the county where it all began as a player,” Onions said. “I’m looking forward to working with a talented group of players and also having the opportunity to develop my own training with some interesting coaches.
“I loved my time in Lancashire as a player and, more recently, as a bowling coach. It is the right time to return to the North East to be with my family more often, but I will always be grateful for the six years I have spent at Emirates “Old Trafford.”
Durham director of cricket Marcus North added: “His 14-year playing career at Durham and his understanding of our club culture and the North East cricket landscape is a huge asset on his return to Durham.
“We have an exciting group of bowlers at Durham and we believe this appointment is key to the development and success of this group. Graham will also play a leadership role alongside Nathan Rimmington in overseeing our talent along the way.”
