McGrath takes charge at Yorkshire

Anthony McGrath takes the reins at Yorkshire following Darren Gough's retirement

Anthony McGrath has been confirmed as the new captain of Yorkshire for the 2009 season.

The former England all-rounder has been vice-captain to Darren Gough for the past two years and was seen by many to be the natural successor following Gough’s decision to retire at the end of the summer.

McGrath, 33, led Yorkshire in 2003, but stepped down after just one season in charge due to England commitments.

Under McGrath's leadership, Yorkshire narrowly missed out on promotion from the Second Division of the County Championship, but were relegated from National League Division One after finishing second from bottom.

Despite being offered the captaincy once more in 2007, he turned it down as he wanted to end his Yorkshire contract, but he was persuaded to stay at Headingley Carnegie following the appointment of Martyn Moxon as director of cricket and Gough’s return as skipper.

McGrath admitted when he stepped down in 2003 that he would like to give the captaincy another go and he has made no secret of his desire to lead the side next season.

McGrath deputised for Gough in seven matches this year, and will relish the opportunity to improve on his previous showings.

He will combine captaincy with a benefit year in 2009, having been on the staff at Yorkshire for 14 years.

McGrath said: “I realise it is a massive honour to be named as captain of Yorkshire with the size and tradition of the club.

Jacques Rudolph, who joined Yorkshire last year, will serve as McGrath's vice-captain next summer

“It is one of the biggest honours in cricket in my opinion and it comes with a lot of responsibility on the field and as a role model.

“Being vice-captain for two years has meant that I’ve captained the side on a few occasions and I’m just glad the club have given me the chance to take up the role on a full-time basis.

"It is something I’m delighted with and very much looking forward to.”

Martyn Moxon, director of professional cricket, said: "Anthony is a tremendous cricketer and brings a huge amount of experience, knowledge and determination to the role of Yorkshire captain.

"He has a quiet authority, although he can be strong when required, he has a great desire to do the job and is passionate about Yorkshire cricket and its values.

"He's well respected and has handled the team extremely well when he has been captain this season. I am looking forward to working with him next season and wish him every success.”

Former South Africa batsman Jacques Rudolph, who joined Yorkshire last season, has been named as McGrath’s deputy.

He said: “I’m looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead in 2009, where I will give Anthony all the support I can in what I hope will be a very successful season for the county.”