Northants name Alex Wakely as new captain

15 September 2014

Alex Wakely will replace Stephen Peters as Northants captain in the County Championship next season.

Wakely, 25, has not played this year after rupturing an Achilles tendon in pre-season but is already skipper of Northants' one-day and T20 sides.

All-rounder David Willey, 24, will be vice-captain with Northants opting for a younger leadership group.

"I am completely honoured to have been asked to captain Northants," said Wakely, who has 3,387 first-class runs.

"It is something I have wanted to do ever since I came to the club as a 13 year old."

BBC Radio Northampton commentator Chris Egerton
"The change is no reflection on Stephen Peters' performance as skipper. "But Wakely is seen as a younger option with time on his side although he needs to get fit again after his ruptured Achilles in pre-season. "The interesting thing is Willey as an appointment as vice-captain. It's a surprise but I'm told it's at Wakely's request to have him in the management group. "I'm also told that it has nothing to do with outside interest for his services, particularly from Surrey, which is understandable with the all-round talent that Willey provides."

BBC Radio Northampton commentator Chris Egerton

"The change is no reflection on Stephen Peters' performance as skipper.

"But Wakely is seen as a younger option with time on his side although he needs to get fit again after his ruptured Achilles in pre-season.

"The interesting thing is Willey as an appointment as vice-captain. It's a surprise but I'm told it's at Wakely's request to have him in the management group.

"I'm also told that it has nothing to do with outside interest for his services, particularly from Surrey, which is understandable with the all-round talent that Willey provides."

Peters, 35, led Northants to promotion from Division Two in 2013 but has been at the helm for a winless campaign in the top flight, which has ended in relegation.

Wakely, a former England Under-19s captain who averages 25.61 in the four-day game, took charge of the white ball sides last year and oversaw success by winning the T20 trophy.

Head coach David Ripley said: "The cricket management team believe it's time for a change in direction and to take a longer-term view as we look to bring success back to the cricket club.

"Stephen captained the side for two seasons and he was instrumental in shaping the changes in attitude and structure that led the club to possibly its most successful season in 2013."

Wakely added: "I still have a lot I want to achieve with my own career and, after a very frustrating year for me with my injury, I cannot wait to get back playing.

"The responsibility of captaincy is something I have always loved and I hope I can play my part as we rebuild over the next few years."

Northants name Alex Wakely as new captain

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