Sarwan takes over from Hoggard

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Out-of-favour West Indies batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan has succeeded Matthew Hoggard as Leicestershire’s four-day captain.

Sarwan, 32, whose last Windies appearance was in July 2011, this year had a productive first season at the county with a first-class batting average of 40.91 and List A equivalent of 36.75.

He was rewarded in July with a contract extension until the end of the 2014 campaign, which was announced on the day Josh Cobb took over the limited-overs captaincy from Hoggard. Cobb, 22, will be Sarwan’s deputy.

Ramnaresh Sarwan enjoyed a fine first season with Leicestershire this year, with 941 first-class runs at an average in excess of 40

Former England seamer Hoggard, 35, signed for Leicestershire as their skipper just over three years ago. His outstanding achievement was leading the Foxes to Friends Life t20 glory last year.

Hoggard said: "I have enjoyed being captain over the past three years but I feel that it is the right time to hand over the reins."

Chief executive Mike Siddall added: "The club wishes to acknowledge the contribution Matthew has made as captain of the club over the past three seasons, leading the team to a fantastic third t20 trophy win last year. We now have the opportunity to put a succession plan in place for the future."

Head coach Phil Whitticase said: "I've really enjoyed working with Matthew over the past three years, especially during our successful t20 campaign. It is important for everyone to get behind Ronnie (Sarwan) as we look to take the club forward."

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