HD Ackerman is Leicestershire's new captain

HD Ackerman has been named Leicestershire's new captain © Cricinfo

HD Ackerman has been named as Leicestershire's captain for the 2005. He replaces the Australian Brad Hodge, who joined Lancashire in October.

Ackerman, 31, currently plays for the Lions in the SuperSport Series in South Africa. He has captained Western Province, Gauteng and South Africa A in the last five years. He played four Tests in 1997-98, and scored 161 runs in eight innings. He has on a three-year contract with Leicestershire and, under the Kolpak ruling, will not count as an overseas player.

"I am delighted and honoured," Ackerman told reporters. "It is a whole new challenge for me. I hope I can help to bring out the best in all the players at Leicestershire."

Darren Maddy will continue as vice-captain.