Jennings, who has signed a one-year contract extension to keep him with Lancashire until at least the end of the 2025 season, was the leading run-scorer in Division One last year with 1233 runs at an average of 72, including a career-high 100 runs. Best included. 318 against Somerset at Southport. His form led to an England Test return and he spent considerable time on the field as a substitute fielder during Pakistan’s 3–0 whitewash before Christmas.
He stood in for the injured Vilas as captain during the previous season’s Royal London Cup run, in which Lancashire were beaten in the final by Kent.
Jennings said, “I am very proud and honored to have the opportunity to become the next captain of Lancashire – a club I have made my home since returning to the Emirates Old Trafford in 2018.”
“Since joining, I have been acutely aware of how proud this club is of its history and the passion of our members, supporters, players and staff for the Red Rose. I am extremely proud to lead this club. New chapter and I hope we are able to create more history together.
“On behalf of the whole team, I would like to thank Dane for his commitment to work and for supporting each of us during my four seasons as captain. He has been a huge part of my development as a leader. And I know I can still take advantage of his experience in the dressing room.”
Lancashire finished as runners-up in all three major competitions in 2022, with Vilas overseeing both the Blast campaign, which ended in a last-ball defeat to Hampshire in the final, and their second place in the LV=Insurance Championship. The 37-year-old South African, who joined the club in 2017, will continue to play as one of Lancashire’s overseas players for 2023.
Vilas said, “Having taken some time off over the winter and having had talks with the senior management at the club, I have decided to stand down as captain of Lancashire.” “It has been an honor and a privilege to lead this great county over the past four seasons, but I feel the time is right to step back from the role and let Keaton continue the great work he started during last season One-Day Cup.”
Lancashire men’s head coach Glen Chappell said: “First of all, I would like to thank the Dane for captaining the club with pride and dedication over the past four seasons. As a coaching team, we fully respect his decision.” Kindly support and feel it is a true testament.” To Dan’s character that he has made the selfless decision to step down with the best interests of the team at the forefront of his mind. We look forward to continuing to work with Dan as one of our senior players.
“I am delighted that Keaton has accepted our offer to become the new club captain and we are all confident that he will do an outstanding job. Keaton demonstrated his leadership qualities during his run in the One-Day Cup final last summer. He has all the potential, respect in the dressing room, and it now seems like a natural next step at the current stage of his career.
“After speaking with Keaton, I know how proud he is to take on this role and I look forward to working more closely with him as we move forward in our preparations for the new season and beyond.” increasing.”
