To do this, I will take a look at a few possible candidates and assess their chances of leading the team next year as well as looking at their suitability for the role. Please don’t take this too seriously as it is just intended to be a light-hearted bit of fun and I am well aware that anything could (and probably will knowing YCCC!) happen between now and then.

The incumbent in the position is quoted as saying that he is “95% certain” that he will be retiring at the end of the current campaign. However, the ‘Dazzler’ is famous for his numerous comebacks at both international and county level and after a very successful 2007 season (37@23.67) could he be tempted into one more year by a good 2008? He will be 38 at the start of the 2009 season.

‘Mags’ is perhaps the favourite for the role, should he want it, given his present status as vice-captain and the fact that he led the side during the 2003 season. The issues of last winter now appear firmly behind him and he is committed to Yorkshire for the long-term. His batting is beyond reproach (he has averaged 60.00 and 46.55 respectively in the last two seasons) but his leadership qualities and tactical nous have been called into question in the past.

Joe SayersA Boycott-esque figure at the top of the order for Yorkshire, a strong 2008 would help further the 24 year-old’s claim. This quote is taken from his ecb.com profile; “A highly talented opening batsman who has an excellent cricket brain and was touted as a future captain of both Yorkshire and England before even making his first-class debut for the county. He is a former England Under-19 captain and his performances as skipper of Oxford University, which included first-class centuries in both the 2003 and 2004 seasons, have earned him a lot of respect.” However, his batting deteriorated badly in the second half of last season so a consistent season is crucial if he wishes to be considered.

Jacques Rudolph

The South African Rudolph joined the county before the 2007 season on a three year ‘Kolpak’ deal. He was by far and away the club’s best batsman in 2007, scoring 1078 runs at an average of 56.73. However, speculation has mounted that Rudolph’s motive in signing for Yorkshire for three years was primarily so that he would qualify for England selection at the end of that time. This could be an issue in the 2010 season and beyond.

At that this moment there is no hint of anyone else being lined up for the role. However, there is a long time yet before this issue needs serious consideration and it is perfectly possible that YCCC could bring an experienced man, perhaps from overseas,  to do the job.

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