The 36-year-old former England star has accepted the job after Iain Sutcliffe rejected the chance to succeed Vince Wells as skipper at Grace Road.

DeFreitas, currently on a cricketing tour in Barbados, said: "I am proud and honoured to be appointed captain.

"I look forward to us achieving the success the club and its supporters deserve."

Leicestershire have endured a period of turmoil in recent weeks.

Vince Wells, stripped of the captaincy at the end of last season, is also still to decide on a new one-year playing contract.

The Professional Cricketers' Association as accused Leicestershire of making promises to players and not carrying them through.

They say the club's behaviour has been "unprofessional" and "unethical".