Middlesex's Neil Dexter says captaincy affected his form

Middlesex's Neil Dexter believes he will cope better with the role of captaining the side this season.

The 27-year-old only managed an average of 26.11 in the four-day game in 2011.

He told BBC London 94.9: "The captaincy isn't an easy job. Last year I let a few things get to me and yes, it did affect the form and the way I played.

"Fortunately [director of cricket] Angus Fraser is very easy to get along with and he's made things a lot more relaxed for me."

He continued: "It's how you deal with it. Last year I let the pressure grow a little bit.

"I've just got to try and enjoy my cricket. We've got a good team and backroom staff so my job is to lead them on the field.

"If I'm scoring runs, which hopefully I will be, that will help out."

The South African thinks that after winning the Division Two title last season, Middlesex can impress back in the top fight.

"Confidence is high but the start of the season is where it counts," Dexter added. "We've got to focus on what we've got to do.

"We've worked really hard over the winter and everything is looking good.

"I am confident we will do very well, let alone compete in the league."

Middlesex begin their campaign away to Somerset on Thursday.