Daryl Mitchell appointed vice-captain

Worcestershire have appointed opening batsman Daryl Mitchell as vice-captain, after offspinner Gareth Batty left the club to join Surrey. In his 48-game first-class career spanning over four years, Mitchell has averaged 38.65 with five centuries and grabbed 16 wickets at 33.25.

Mitchell, who will deputise for captain Vikram Solanki, was delighted at the appointment. "To be offered the vice-captaincy at this stage in my career is a great honour and one I am delighted to accept," he said. "The team is obviously going through a period of transition but we have some really good young players coming through. I am genuinely excited about the future and I look forward to working with Vikram over the years ahead."

Worcestershire chief executive Mark Newton said: "Daryl was the first graduate from the Club's Academy and soon established himself as a key member of the 1st XI in all forms of cricket. He is a true Worcestershire lad and his attitude epitomizes everything we want from our cricketers. We are delighted he has accepted the appointment and he will give valuable support on and off the field to Captain, Vikram Solanki."