THE Western Australian cricket selectors have appointed Michael Hussey as Western Warriors stand-in captain for the 2002-2003 season.

This appointment is in conjunction with Adam Gilchrist as Western Warriors official captain and Justin Langer as vice-captain.

Hussey will be the Warriors deputy vice-captain.

He will lead the Warriors first-class and limited-overs team whenever Gilchrist and Langer are unavailable for their state due to international commitments.

Batsman and Australia A wicketkeeper Ryan Campbell will be vice-captain to Hussey whenever Gilchrist and Langer are unavailable for their state.

Hussey will lead the Warriors in next week's RE/MAX Cup tour match against England, starting with a two-day game which commences on Thursday.

He will also captain the Australian Cricket Board Chairman's XI against England to launch the international season on Tuesday, October 22.

Hussey, 27, will hand over his Warriors stand-in skipper's role to Gilchrist for a three-day match against England starting at the WACA on Monday, October 28.

Hussey has just completed a full English county season as captain of Northamptonshire.

His appointment was announced at an official Western Warriors season launch early tonight.

WA cricket also released a new season branding of the Western Warriors "Catch the Spirit" in conjunction with a vigorous television, press and internet advertising campaign.

The WA Cricket Association also launched a completely new website www.waca.com.au

© 2002 Western Australian Cricket Association

This report does not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Cricket Board.