The Auckland Cricket Association has today confirmed Michelle Lynch (Cornwall CC) as the new captain of the State Auckland Hearts.

The 26-year-old takes over from Kathryn Ramel who has decided to take an indefinite break from cricket at all levels of the game.

Lynch has established herself as an integral member of the State Auckland Hearts team in recent seasons batting at the top of the order. Selected in the TelstraClear White Ferns training squad for the first time in 2001, Lynch is a first cousin of former and current State Auckland Aces players Stephen and Rob Lynch.

Lynch will also captain her Cornwall first grade women's team in the Prichard Cup first grade women's competition in Auckland Club Cricket, which commences this weekend.

State Auckland Aces coach Wally Stamp welcomed the appointment by saying, "Michelle possesses strong leadership qualities, a well developed work ethic and thorough tactical knowledge of the intricacies of the game. She will be ably supported by other senior players in the team."

The State Auckland Hearts completed their winter training programme this week and will now commence playing for their clubs in the Prichard Cup first grade women's competition.

The State Auckland Hearts commence their State League campaign for 2002/03 at Carisbrook on January 4, 2003 against the State Otago Sparks.

© Auckland Cricket Association