State Wellington Firebirds coach Vaughn Johnson today announced Richard Jones as the official vice-captain of the Firebirds. Last season's skipper Matthew Bell will continue in the role when his New Zealand commitments permit, leaving Jones to captain the side in Bell's absence.

State Firebirds coach Johnson said "Richard was a natural choice after his previous experience with Auckland, and now after getting used to the culture and environment here in Wellington he was the natural choice to take over from Belly when he is unavailable."

Given his probable New Zealand commitments, it is likely Bell will captain Wellington in the State Shield one-day competition and four of the 10 rounds in the State Championship four-day competition, with Jones in charge for the remaining six fixtures.

© Cricket Wellington