Ben Smith, Worcestershire's 30 year-old right-handed batsman, has been appointed as the county's captain in succession to Graeme Hick. Hick was relieved of the post after three seasons in charge in somewhat controversial circumstances in that he expressed profound disappointment at the decision.

Smith had been vice-captain of Leicestershire in 2001 but left at the end of that season to join Worcestershire. He enjoyed a successful first season with his new county and led the side in the final Norwich Union League match of the season – against Leicestershire – when Hick was absent with a broken thumb.

Having been a part of Leicestershire championship-winning teams in 1996 and 1998, he knows what it takes to reach the pinnacle of the county game and wants to emulate those performances now he is in a position to lead Worcestershire.

On his appointment he said: "I am thrilled to have been given the honour of leading the county during what promises to be a very exciting period. I have settled into the club extremely well both on and off the pitch and am looking forward to building on the progress we made as a side last season.

"I know Graeme was disappointed not to continue in the job but I have spoken to him and he has assured me I have his full support and I have no doubt he will continue to be a huge asset to the side as he has been throughout his career with the club."

Director of cricket at New Road, Tom Moody, commented on Smith's appointment by saying, "I am confident Ben will take us to new heights and lead us with great success. The club feels that the time is right to move forward with the captaincy of the team and Ben has all the attributes as a leader to take us to the next level."

Smith's first task will be to lead Worcestershire out of the second division of the championship. It is thought that failure to achieve that last season was influential in the decision to change the captaincy.

© CricInfo