Wayne Madsen succeeds Luke Sutton as Derbyshire skipper

Madsen has scored nine Championship tons for Derbyshire

Derbyshire have named Wayne Madsen as their new captain following Luke Sutton's shock retirement on Thursday.

South Africa-born batsman Madsen has become a key member of the team since scoring 170 not out on his debut against Gloucestershire in 2009.

The 27-year-old averages 35.88 in four-day cricket and skippered the team in four one-day matches in 2011.

"I'm extremely honoured and looking forward to the challenge of leading an exciting young team," Madsen said.

"The squad has made significant strides during the past year. It will be a privilege to lead this group of players."

Madsen has scored 2,476 first-class runs for Derbyshire and in 2011 he averaged 43.45 in the CB40 competition and scored three 50s during the FL t20 campaign.

Head coach Karl Krikken is confident Madsen, who is due to complete England qualification early in 2013, is the perfect replacement for Sutton.

"As an excellent leader within the squad and as a model professional, Wayne is the ideal candidate to take over captaincy duties," Krikken said.

"He proved to be a very popular stand-in captain in one-day cricket during the latter part of last season and I know he will do an excellent job in the position on a full-time basis.

Chairman Chris Grand added: "My sincere congratulations to Wayne on this fully deserved honour.

"I'm sure all the club's members, supporters, sponsors and partners join me in wishing him all the very best for the season ahead."