That David Byas should retire from county cricket at the end of last season seemed only natural.

Byas celebrated his 38th birthday just days after leading Yorkshire to their first Championship title since 1968.

And shortly afterwards he announced he would be hanging up his boots.

But, just as Yorkshire were preparing for their first season in 15 without Byas, they realised that they would be meeting up at least twice in 2002.

Byas, who since 1986 has worn the white rose of Yorkshire will this summer be sporting the red rose of their arch-rivals.

In six years as captain, Byas brought much to Yorkshire: a straightforward work ethic, huge personal determination, and a burning desire to bring the club out of the wilderness.

He would admit to being on the stubborn side and has was able to indulge that characteristic several times during their Championship season, batting opposing teams out of of existence.

Life experience

Byas was criticised for batting on at Leicester to take Yorkshire's lead well over the 500 mark, but simply grinned back at his critics and put it all down to a "farmer's instinct".

Byas is unlike most other county cricketers in that he regards himself as a professional farmer, who also plays cricket.