Butcher reveals a double vision

"I'm only 32 and winning the Ashes next summer is a huge challenge. It's the best opportunity we've ever had to beat the Aussies and, you never know, it could be my last chance."

Butcher's replacement of Jon Batty last week came as a surprise as his England duties will frequently prevent him leading Surrey - he is the only county captain among England's 12 centrally contracted players - but in other respects it is a natural appointment.

The left-handed batsman has played all his cricket at The Oval since coming to watch his father Alan, now Surrey's second-team coach, as a youngster and regularly stood-in for previous captains Stewart and Adam Hollioake.

Butcher has played just 10 Championship matches in the last two seasons, but is adamant he can still make an impact.

He said: "I want to play every game for England but everyone at Surrey is happy with the situation. We've had it before. Alec was always away on international duty when he was captain and it didn't stop us winning trophies. It's an important position at the club, not just about playing on the field.

"I didn't have too much to think about and it was an easy decision. I've always wanted to captain Surrey at some stage and this is as good a time as any. I've been coming to Surrey since I was a baby, have played here all my career and have a huge amount of respect and affection for the club.

"Hopefully, I'll be away with England a lot and there are plans in place for Mark Ramprakash to take over. Everyone at the club is happy with it. I captained the side on loads of occasions when Adam Hollioake was absent and I'm looking forward to the challenge." Butcher's appointment represents a change of policy by Surrey following a disastrous summer when they failed to win a trophy for the first time in six years.

The demands of opening the batting, keeping wicket and leading the side proved too much for Batty and, after experimenting with a journeyman professional, Surrey have opted for a captain of proven international pedigree.

Butcher admits there is much work to do but at least he will be free from the usual pressure to regain the Championship.

He said: "It was a difficult year. When you lose a captain and a coach you've had for seven years there's always going to be problems and it's not going to be a smooth transition.

"We had injuries to key players like everyone else and never really got it together.

"We finished third in the end but we're not interested in that at this club. That's the way the players feel. It's unacceptable to us, never mind the committee or the members.

The goal is to get back on track and win some trophies.

"It was hard for Jon last year but it would've been hard for anyone combining three roles like that. He did the job to the best of his ability and kept his dignity. He was disappointed to lose the job but I've spoken with him and am delighted that he's staying at the club, as we need him as a batsman and a wicketkeeper."

If Ramprakash is injured while Butcher is away with England, Batty may even have to step into the breach.