New skipper supporting Livingstone

CRICKET CHRIS OSTICK NEW Lancashire captain Dane Vilas has backed predecessor Liam Livingstone to return to form next season after giving up the role.

And the former South African Test wicketkeeper says he is ‘humbled’ at being handed the skipper’s role.

Livingstone stood down earlier this week after just one season in the job, believing his game has suffered because of the added responsibility.

Vilas was the only real choice to succeed him, with the 33-yearold a regular in all formats for Lancashire and he also has the experience needed to lead what is set to be a fairly young squad in their bid to secure promotion back to Division One of the Specsavers County Championship.

And he believes Livingstone can return to the form which saw him go on England’s Test tour to New Zealand last winter.

He said: “Liam did a good job last season in what was a challenging year for the club, and I think giving him the freedom to concentrate on his own performances will get the best out of him as a batsman and that will only be good for the team.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have been offered the opportunity to become Lancashire captain and I feel honoured and humbled to be in a position to lead the club forward in the coming years.

“Lancashire has a proud and distinguished history and it’s a privilege for me to be part of writing the next chapter in the club’s history.

“Even though I’ve only been part of the side for the last two years, I understand the importance of what the Red Rose means to supporters and the whole squad is determined to win back our position in Division One of the County Championship and to challenge for ●● Dane Vilas both white ball competitions next year.”

Vilas, who has six Test caps, moved to Emirates Old Trafford in 2017 and was Lancashire’s top run scorer in this year’s County Championship with 791 runs, including an unbeaten 235 against Somerset at Emirates Old Trafford.

He stood in as captain for the latter part of last season after Livingstone broke his left thumb against Yorkshire in the County Championship.

Lancashire head coach Glen Chapple said: “I’m delighted Dane has accepted our offer to be club captain and I believe he will do an excellent job.

“He led the team very well in Liam’s absence through injury last season and I’m confident he is the right man to be at the forefront of this group of players.

“Dane is a vastly experienced cricketer who has the complete respect of the dressing room.

“Since arriving at the club two years ago, he’s become one of the leaders of the side and sets an outstanding example to his team-mates with his attitude both on and off the field.

“Having spoken to Dane this week, I know how proud he is to represent the Red Rose and to now take over as captain.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with him.”