 | CRAIG WHITE FACTFILE Born: 19.12.69, Morley Hall, West Yorkshire Test record: 1,052 runs and 59 wickets in 30 matches Helped Yorkshire win 2001 County Championship and 2002 C&G Trophy |
Yorkshire have named all-rounder Craig White as their new captain. He replaces Anthony McGrath after being recommended for the job by Director of Cricket David Byas.
McGrath is a member of England's one-day squad and the club has decided he should be allowed to pursue his international ambitions.
"He wants to concentrate on his England career, which is fair enough, and it's perfect time for me to step in and take some responsibility," said White.
Opener Matthew Wood will be retained as the vice-captain for the 2004 season.
Byas and White, who both have close links to the seaside town of Scarborough, have a keen understanding of each other's approach to the game.
"There's a few things that need to be sorted out. They're not massive things - just the little one and two per cents in a few areas that make all the difference," White told BBC Sport.
"I wasn't sure whether captaincy would be my thing but I've got a fair bit of experience and thought I'd give it a go - I can't take them down into the Third Division."
It is unlikely White will be required by England in 2004, although he has not given up hope of an international comeback if he is able to bowl without discomfort after having part of a rib removed last summer.
He will be Yorkshire's fourth captain in as many years.
Byas led the team to the Championship title in 2001, Darren Lehmann was in charge when they were relegated 12 months later, while McGrath held the reins for a single season.
News of White's appointment came on the same day the Yorkshire squad turned up at a snowy Headingley for the first day of pre-season training.
"The lads have been putting in the hours throughout winter and I am pleased with what I have seen today," said Byas.
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Is White guranteed a starting place with all his injury problems?
