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Lancs captain Law to leave Old Trafford

13/10/2008

Lancashire have announced captain Stuart Law is to leave the club after deciding not to offer him a new contract.

Australian Law, who turns 40 next week and joined the county from Essex in 2002, will be replaced as skipper by Glen Chapple for the 2009 season.

Lancashire said Law's age and participation in the Indian Cricket League (ICL) were factors in the decision.

"Stuart has been a top class player and has served us superbly in the time he has been here, but the club is committed to giving younger members of the squad the opportunity to grow and the cricket committee felt the time was right for other players to take on added responsibilities," chief executive Jim Cumbes said of Law, who has scored 12,000 runs for the county.

"Although not a determining factor, any player's allegiance to the ICL (Indian Cricket League) does make it difficult for English counties, simply because the ECB (England & Wales Cricket Board) are tightening regulations on unauthorised competitions, as are the ICC (International Cricket Council)."

Mike Watkinson added: "Stuart was one of my very first signings when I took over as cricket manager, and has always given tremendous service to the club.

"He is a quality player who takes great pride in passing on his knowledge to anyone who needs a helping hand. He is highly-respected in the dressing room and popular with both members and supporters. We wish him and his family all the best for the future."

Chapple, the club's longest-serving player, said he was "absolutely delighted" to be named as the county's captain.

"It's a privilege to play for such a big county, and an even bigger honour to be captaining the club I've been involved with for the past 18 years," the 34-year-old said.

"I'm a product of the Lancashire system, and I look forward to leading a very talented squad of players to future success."