Left-hand batsman Andrew Gale has been confirmed as the new captain of Yorkshire, following Anthony McGrath's decision to step down to concentrate on his batting.

Twenty-six-year-old Gale has initially taken up the post for the 2010 season, but hopes to impress to earn a longer-term time in charge at Headingley.

He told the county's official website: "It's a very proud day. Ever since I pulled a Yorkshire shirt on aged ten I've dreamed of being Yorkshire captain.

"You don't think twice about accepting a job like this and you only have to look at the great names that have done the job before me.

"When (director of professional cricket) Martyn Moxon asked me I was over the moon and I'm really excited about leading the team in 2010."

Moxon added: "I'm very pleased with our decision to appoint Andrew as captain. He is a talented cricketer with a good cricket brain and is extremely enthusiastic to do well.

"We will have a young side in 2010 and a young captain at the helm. Together they have the opportunity to gel as a team and really push this club forward over the next few years."