McGrath begins second spell as Yorkshire skipper

7:32pm Wednesday 15th October 2008

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Anthony McGrath, the man who came close to walking away from Yorkshire for good just two years ago, has been unveiled as the county’s new captain for 2009.

The all-rounder, who briefly led the team in 2003, will succeed Darren Gough as Yorkshire’s on-field leader – and he is delighted to be back in charge.

“Having done it briefly before, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do again,” he said.

“I realise it’s a massive role with the club the size that it is and the traditions of the club. I also realise the responsibility that comes with it both on the field and as a role model off it but I can’t wait to get started.”

McGrath’s last season in charge proved a tricky one – Yorkshire finished fourth in Division Two of the County Championship but were relegated in the National League (the Pro40 competition of its day) – and he stood down at the end of the campaign to concentrate on his England career, having been called up that same season.

But he is confident that this time round will be different, having learned from the years inbetween.

He said: “When I did it before I was a lot younger and probably a little bit wet behind the ears in some ways. But having played the last four seasons under Craig White and Darren Gough and captained the team on a few occasions, I’ve picked up a few things that probably I didn’t implement last time.

“At the end of the day everyone just wants to bring silverware to the club and it will be no different next year.”

The appointment, with South African Kolpakker Jacques Rudolph as his number two, completes a remarkable circle of events since he threatened to leave the club two years ago.

But he says things are very different now.

He said: “I think since that time the club’s moved forward. They’ve invested a lot of money into the youth and the cricketing side so I think the club’s in a lot better state than it was and that’s why I stayed and that’s why I’m glad I’m involved now.”

Meanwhile, Yorkshire are in the process of tying up a key seam bowler for next season. It is expected that the as yet unnamed overseas player, thought to be involved in the Indian Cricket League, will be revealed within the next 48 hours.