Batty steps into Hollioake's shoes at Surrey

Surrey will attempt to regain the Frizzell County Championship from Sussex next summer under new leadership after wicketkeeper Jonathan Batty was appointed captain in place of Adam Hollioake.

Hollioake will retire at the end of next season and Surrey felt they should start planning for the future straight away.

"Following Adam Hollioake's decision to retire at the end of 2004, both he and the club decided that it was in the best interests of the team for the captaincy to be handed over at the beginning of next year," Surrey's chief executive Paul Sheldon said.

"The club is deeply fortunate to have a man of Jonathan's calibre and integrity to take on this demanding job."

Cricket manager Keith Medlycott added: "JB has been an integral member of the team since he joined the club in 1997.

"He has worked tirelessly on his game and has now developed into a top-class keeper and opening batsman.