Atkins named Sussex Women skipper

Caroline Atkins, who has played nine Tests, 58 one-day and 19 Twenty20 internationals, will lead Sussex Women this season

Caroline Atkins will take over the captaincy of Sussex Women from Alexia Walker for this season with Atkins’ England team-mate Holly Colvin her vice-captain.

Atkins, an experienced England batter, has played a key role for her county both as an opener and vice-captain over the past decade during the numerous County Championship title victories.

She said: "I am really excited to have been appointed captain of Sussex. It is a great privilege for me to lead the fantastic squad of players we have alongside head coach Rupert Kitzinger.

“There have been a few changes, not just in leadership, but with two retirements last year also contributing to a new beginning. For my part, I will take on the captaincy with great pride and endeavour to get the best out of our team."

Retiring captain Walker said: "I have enjoyed every moment of leading a Sussex side to some excellent results, culminating in winning the County Championship title twice in the last three years.

“It was especially rewarding to win the 2010 title whilst also utilising a large playing squad in which some highly talented youngsters have started to make a name for themselves.

“It is with these feelings that I am stepping down from the role of captain and I am delighted to be handing the reins over to Caroline Atkins. I know that Caroline will relish the honour of leading the Sussex Women’s team to a new era of success.

“I will continue to play for Sussex and will be overseeing the junior age group county coaching with Charlotte Burton. My career is in coaching and I am looking forward to having time to maximise all that I have learnt through recently going through my Level Four course."