Read takes reins at Notts

Chris Read © Getty Images

Buy this photo

Chris Read will replace Stephen Fleming as Nottinghamshire captain next season after the New Zealand skipper decided not to return to the club.

Read, 29, was named vice-captain at the start of the current campaign, having led the Outlaws in the Twenty20 Cup in 2004.

He is already targeting a repeat of the club’s 2005 County Championship success should the club secure promotion to Division One this season.

He said: “The championship is the ultimate target for any county and if we manage to get into Division One, we have got the talent to win it again.

“Flem has been a terrific captain for us and if I can bring half of his leadership skills to the side then I’ll be happy.

“I’m in a fortunate position to be leading a very skilled group of players, and I want to continue the process where everyone is looking to achieve success in a united dressing room.”

Read this season became the first Notts wicket-keeper to score a double-century when he made 240 against Essex.

He has been in and out of the England side in recent years but insists he is not concerned about adding to his 15 Test and 36 one-day international caps.

He added: “If an England call comes my way, then great, but my priority is to keep Notts moving forward and challenging for trophies.

“This is a huge thing for me, and a wonderful opportunity which I’m delighted to take on.”

Notts director of cricket Mick Newell added: “We have been able to look at the alternatives available in the past year and Chris was the stand-out candidate.

“I believe he will be an excellent captain. He is a very thoughtful cricketer and has had the chance to learn at close quarters from Stephen Fleming over the past three seasons.

“His own game is in very good order and the job has come at the right time in his career. This is a challenge I’m sure he will rise to.”